Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Shiranui Kaya (不知火カヤ)

Affiliation: Defense Office Chief, General Student Council (3rd Year)
Age: 17
Hobbies: Comparing instant coffee brands, paperwork

1. Overview

A character from the mobile game Blue Archive... or so it seems.

2. Profile

"For a bright and refreshing Kivotos."
"I will always strive to maintain public order." — MomoTalk Profile

As the Defense Office Chief of Kivotos' General Student Council Administrative Committee, her duty is to uphold public order across the city. However, Kivotos is a place where bullets fly freely, heavy weaponry and explosives are rampant, and terrorism runs wild—so her workload is endless.

Generally, each school manages its own security, leaving district policing to their respective authorities. For areas outside school jurisdiction, she delegates tasks to the Valkyrie Police School or directly oversees squads from SRT Special Academy.

Though not particularly brilliant, she compensates with relentless effort and vigilance.

Occasionally appears on the wanted bulletin board in place of Momoka.

(Encoded text omitted as it appears to be unrelated or placeholder content.)

3. In-Game Story 3.1 Prologue

Makes her first appearance greeting the groggy Sensei. Alongside the Chief Administrative Officer, she listens to protests from representatives of Kivotos' "Big Three" schools—Trinity, Gehenna, and Millennium—regarding administrative collapse.

Overwhelmed by the situation and Rin's blunt explanation, she nearly faints but is steadied by Yukino of FOX Squad. Upon hearing that seven dangerous criminals have escaped, she deliberates countermeasures and tasks FOX Squad with apprehending the most urgent target: the Calamity Fox.

Later, after FOX Squad fails to capture the Calamity Fox, she reprimands them lightly and sends them back to SRT.

3.2 Main Story 3.2.1 Vol. 1: Countermeasure Committee Arc

Dispatches RABBIT Squad (replacing FOX Squad) to Abydos. Though this risks infringing on the district's autonomy, she justifies it as necessary to investigate the Helmet Gang's backers.

Shuttling between Abydos and the General Student Council, she temporarily withdraws RABBIT Squad due to protests from Gehenna and Trinity—only to redeploy them when Ako invades Abydos, nullifying the complaints.

"By Article 1, Clause 2 of the General Student Council Charter: All sovereignty of autonomous districts belongs to the students, and all authority derives from them!"

"Thus, as Defense Office Chief Shiranui Kaya declares, Abydos High School—where students still remain—retains its sovereignty!"

When Hoshino is kidnapped and Kaiser PMC attempts to seize Abydos, she drives them back with words alone. Later, she joins Hoshino's rescue operation.

After the crisis resolves, she urges the Finance Office Chief to thoroughly investigate Kaiser's loans.

3.2.2 Vol. 3: Eden Treaty Arc

Upon reviewing documents brought by Secretary Oochi, Kaya learns the dormant Eden Treaty negotiations are still active. Shocked, she orders FOX Squad to infiltrate Trinity for intel.

However, Nagisa—suspecting Kaya of Seia's murder—invites her to Trinity to test her.

(To be continued...)

3.3 Event Stories

(Pending addition.)

4. Dialogue

Lobby Entry 1: "I've been waiting for you, Sensei."
Lobby Entry 2: "Your assistance is always welcome."

Small Talk 1: "I look forward to your brilliant leadership."
Small Talk 2: "Huh? You think my squinty eyes make me look like a mastermind?!"
Small Talk 3: "Kaitengers... To me, they're just criminals disrupting order."
Small Talk 4: "Care for coffee? It's my favorite instant blend."
Small Talk 5: "Let's work well together on this mission."
Small Talk 6: "With Shale by our side, it feels like we've gained an army."

5. Character Traits

A "misunderstood mastermind" type with squinty eyes and a cryptic smile. Though she has no intent to deceive, others often misinterpret her.

A workaholic to a pathological degree—she hasn't used a single day of her allotted annual leave.

6. Trivia

Fully aware of her "villainous" appearance but leans into it, unnerving others with ambiguous remarks.

Weapon: Browning Hi-Power pistol.

Holds command over SRT Special Academy but is typically limited to one squad. Unrestricted deployment requires majority approval from the General Student Council's executives.

Rarely deploys her direct-security forces outside District U, as SRT handles external operations.

Deeply close to the former Defense Office Chief and wishes to reunite with them.

Shares wanted bulletin appearances with Momoka due to overlapping duties (e.g., traffic-disrupting crimes).

According to the Health Office Chief, anesthetics, sedatives, and painkillers inexplicably don't work on her.

Sadly, her promotion to "Council President" seems unlikely.

Chapter Text

Why?
Wasn’t everything supposed to go smoothly?

<Repeat: Missile impact confirmed at the Old Cathedral of Communion. Enemy forces are advancing in large numbers.>

Yukino’s frantic voice crackled through my earpiece—tucked in secretly before the press conference.

Anyone else, and I’d have written it off as a bad joke.

But Yukino? The same Yukino who’d ordered me not to interrupt unless the world was ending?

<Defense Director, awaiting orders. What’s our priority?>

…Hah.
So this is the emergency pass I’ve been guaranteed, huh?

Goddammit. Weren’t we promised a bright, wholesome game?

Chapter Text

When I opened my eyes, what I saw wasn’t a hospital ceiling—but an unfamiliar one.
Not the ceiling of my old studio apartment, nor a friend’s place where I’d occasionally crash. A completely foreign ceiling.

"...No way?"

I hurriedly sat up and looked around.

No IV drip. No smell of medicine.

Most importantly—my body moved freely.

"For real? Actually?"

The wish I’d made right before dying from illness—

I want to enter the world of KanColle, my favorite setting.

It seemed it had actually come true.

"Ah! A mirror—I need a mirror..."

Kantai Collection (KanColle for short), a world where shipgirls (kanmusu) battled the Abyssal Fleet. My favorite character was Shiranui—fierce, intimidating, with a strict military demeanor, yet endearingly referring to herself in third person.

Since getting isekai’d usually meant becoming the protagonist’s favorite, surely I—!

I dashed toward where I vaguely remembered the bathroom was and looked into the mirror.

"...Huh?"

The pink hair matched—KanColle’s Shiranui had pink hair.

...But her eyes weren’t this narrow.

"Ah. Now that I look closer, there’s a baka ahoge (idiot hair tuft)."

Our Shiranui had a ponytail, not this dumb cowlick!

"...Wait, this makes less sense."

If I were a kanmusu, I should be in a dormitory.

And most glaringly—

"What the heck is this on my head?"

The angel ring hovering above me was undeniable proof: this wasn’t the KanColle universe.
So... where was I?

"Angel ring... halo... ugh, my head..."

343 Industries, you bastards... Give me back my Halo series...

Wait. A setting with halos? Only one came to mind.

"Blue Archive."

A game by Nexon.

I’d considered trying it before my illness worsened—it looked fun.

"Sigh... Didn’t this game’s story never get properly finished? Then again, what gacha mobile game actually wraps up its plot?"

Of all things, I’d been reborn into a game I barely knew.

Dying was bad enough, but I couldn’t even end up in the world I wanted?

"...Might as well deal with the present."

Memories of "this me" surfaced:

Name: Shiranui Kaya.
Role: General Student Council, 2nd Year—Chief Secretary to the Defense Officer.
Today’s Task: Processing security reports from across Kivotos.

"That covers the basics. There’s still time before work—might as well recall what I know about Blue Archive."

A world where getting shot doesn’t kill you (dev-confirmed!). The antithesis of grimdark games like Arknights.

"Honestly, that alone makes this a win!"

I couldn’t help grinning. KanColle had its darkness, and Arknights was bleaker—this was refreshing!

"Bullets don’t kill, and students drive the story!

Ahh, this is perfect. Exactly the kind of world I needed!"

Total victory! At least here, life would be easier than before.

Ahem. "Not very ‘me’-like to get this excited."

...The names were similar, though.

KanColle’s Shiranui and this Shiranui Kaya.

Did I get the wrong reincarnation due to a naming glitch?

"Hmm. KanColle’s Shiranui would’ve been ideal, but this one won’t suffer much~ What kind of crisis could happen in such a bright, cheerful world~?"

Even in KanColle, I’d have enjoyed things—between brutal battles against the Abyssal Fleet.

"Compared to that, this is heaven."

Sure, paperwork might be tedious, but at least I wouldn’t be on the frontlines!

"Farewell, tragic past~ Time for Shiranui Kaya’s happy life! Now, let’s prep for work with a smile."

Chapter Text

"Mmm~ Another perfectly peaceful day at D.U.—"

"Well, obviously. Who’d be stupid enough to make trouble in the heart of Kivotos?"

The Defense Office’s inner sanctum – the Director’s private room – hums with quiet efficiency. Two long sofas face off across a coffee table, while glass walls offer a panoramic view. Behind the L-shaped desk with its imposing nameplate, the Defense Director slouches with practiced ease. Somehow, this mix of authority and comfort feels just right for our daily work.

"Still~ You know some students will riot anywhere—"

"Chief, please. Anyone causing real trouble here would bring SRT down on them instantly."

SRT Special Academy

From my memories, they emerged from the shadows last year during the Kaiser Industry scandal – when rumors of illegal weapons development led to their lightning raid on the Second Factory.

"Technically~" The Director drawls, tracing circles on the desk, "the President calls them a Council task force, but let’s be real – they’re her private army."

A shadow flickers through the Director’s usual lazy smile....

Maybe they’re right to worry.

The General Student Council’s power is absolute – controlling every district, even authorizing military strikes that skirt the edge of legal overreach. Power isn’t the problem. The problem is one girl holding all of it.

"Honestly? If our dear President wanted to declare herself dictator tomorrow, who could stop her?"

The Director flops forward onto the desk, arms splayed. I should probably object.

"Shouldn’t the Defense Director at least pretend to care? If this happens, we’d need to—"

"Pfft~ You think no-confidence votes matter if she ignores them?"

I organize the last documents with sharper clicks than necessary.

"That’s everything for today, Director."

"Kaya-chan~! My miracle worker!"

All traces of earlier tension dissolve into the Director’s sunbeam grin. I should savor this – the quiet joy of paperwork done right in Kivotos’ "bright and refreshing" world. My coffee, brewed hours ago in anticipation, sits cold and forgotten.

"Welp~ No more excuses to keep you! Go home!"

"It’s two hours before—"

The Director waves dismissively, already halfway into a nap.

"You finished everything! Shoo! Enjoy your freedom~"

Is this a trap? Payback for rushing through morning reports?

"Hmm~? That’s quite the suspicious look, Kaya-chan~"

"I didn’t say anything!"

"You’re as easy to read as a picture book today~"

Chapter Text

Time passed peacefully, without any major incidents.

Occasionally, the Director and I would stop by the Valkyrie Police Academy for Defense Division work.

---

The Director, unusually flustered, followed behind me.

"Kaya-chan~ Couldn’t you have been a little softer with your words~?"

"Director. No matter how you look at it, this is too much. The prison’s security is a mess. The equipment passwords are literally written on the cards, and—

And the state of the equipment? Even ignoring how outdated it is, some pieces are so poorly maintained that they’re covered in dust!"

"U-um~ Well, you see—"

As I pressed further, the Director rolled her eyes, dodging the question.

"...Sigh. I’m sorry. I know. Budget cuts after prolonged peace. And on top of that, morale is in shambles. If something really serious happens, the SRT Special Academy will handle it anyway,’ right?"

"Yeesh— It hurts because you’re absolutely right~"

The Director wiped away cold sweat, scratching her head. Hah. I know. I get it. Neither the Director nor the police academy students wanted to be like this.

"But still, isn’t the riot training a complete disaster, Director...?"

"Nooo— I didn’t expect it to be this much of a train wreck either~?"

...And so, the two top members of the Defense Division witnessed the shocking state of riot training:

Shields shattering after a single shot,

Shoes falling apart mid-sprint, sending trainees tumbling,

Suspects not even pretending to resist, and arrests done half-heartedly.

""Sigh...""

---

Sometimes, I’d end up spending a rare day off with the Director.

---

"Alright~ Kaya-chan~! Today, we’re gonna have fun like there’s no tomorrow~!!"

The Director was in an unusually fiery mood. Normally, she only got like this when there was less than an hour left before a paperwork deadline.

"I’m surprised you’re this serious about having fun, Director."

"Well, duh~! Work is exhausting, y’know~"

I tilted my head slightly and asked:

"Director. Do you remember that I handle about half of the work you’re supposed to do— KYAH!?"

"C’mon~! Kaya-chan~!! Let’s have fuuuun~!!"

Before I could finish, the Director spun around and pushed me into the pool. But I didn’t go down without a fight—just before falling in, I grabbed her arm and pulled her in with me.

""Pwah—!!""

We both ended up like drowned rats. The Director’s fluffy hair was now limp and dripping, and my own bangs were plastered to my forehead. We looked at each other—

"Pfft—" "Snrk."

""Ahahaha!""

---

And then there was the time we screened new students to prepare for the Defense Division’s generational shift.

---

"I wonder~ which schools submitted the most applications this time~?"

The Director, in her usual carefree tone, slowly flipped through the documents. What she was holding were self-introductions—profiles of students nominated by their respective school councils.

"Unsurprisingly, Gehenna and Trinity make up the majority."

Just a quick glance showed that the two schools combined accounted for slightly over half. Though, honestly, the total number of applications was so small that it wasn’t exactly a flood.

"Hmm~ Abydos didn’t submit any again this time~"

"Abydos, you mean?"

From my memories, it was once the most powerful school in Kivotos. But lately, desertification had been chipping away at its influence...

"Such a shame~ At this rate, they might collapse~ I used to visit their Sand Festival a lot—it was so much fun~"

"...Is that so? If even the Director, who hates moving around, enjoyed it that much, it must’ve been really fun."

"Mhm~ Exactly— Wait, Kaya-chan, did you just insult me?"

"Of course not. Why would I insult you, Director?"

As she hurried over mid-conversation, I flipped to another page. ...A school collapsing doesn’t really fit this bright, cheerful world. But if things were really dire, the Student Council President would handle it. No need to worry.

"Ugh~ Kaya-chan’s getting colder by the day~"

---

And finally...

---

"Kaya-chan~"

"...Yes, Director."

...There was the time we celebrated her graduation.

Chapter Text

"Aichaan~ Kaya-chan~ I'm not the Defense Director anymore, you know~? From now on, you're the Defense Director, got it~?"

"...I know. But to me, you'll always be the Defense Director."

"Ehhh—no more stiff formalities—"

She waved off my forced professionalism, her usual carefree aura undiminished.

"This might~ be the last time~ Won't you call me 'senpai' instead~?"

"...Huff. You really never change, Senpai..."

Honestly, I was still confused.

Where did I end, and where did 'I' begin?

And more than that—could I really survive in this unfamiliar world?

Did Senpai notice how different I'd become from 'her'?

Despite her busy schedule, she still made time to wander around with me.

Always looking out for me in ways I didn't even realize.

Honestly. How could I not say it?

"Oh? Guess I already said it~ Not exactly dramatic, but... good enough~?"

Her tone was playful, but her expression was brighter than ever.

"Kaya-chan~ One last request—can you do this for me~?"

"Huh?"

As I tilted my head, wondering what she'd ask, she fidgeted with her words before finally speaking.

"Take care of the General Student Council President for me."

"!!!"

"Mmm~ That's it~ Well then, see ya~"

She spread her arms and hugged me tightly.

About a minute later, she let go and turned her back to me.

Stunned by her unexpected request, I quickly gathered myself and shouted after her:

"Senpai! You have to stay healthy, okay?! Otherwise, I can't keep my promise!"

She didn't look back. Just waved her hand in reply.

Alright then.

Time to think about Senpai's final request.

"...Just what did you see in her, Senpai?"

Every high-ranking member of the General Student Council knew the unspoken issue:

Too much power was concentrated in a single person.

But nobody dared question it. Why?

"Because she's too capable. Because everyone trusts her too much."

Truth be told, I trusted her too.

There was no way she'd misuse that power.

Honestly, even worrying about this felt foolish.

"Senpai wouldn't have said something like that lightly..."

But I trusted Senpai just as much.

So what did that leave me to do?

Knock knock.

A knock? At this hour?

The sun was nearly set—who'd come looking for me now?

"Yes, come in."

No point in turning away someone who knocked. If it was urgent, I'd handle it. If not, I'd take it home and—

"Hello, Shiranui-san."

"Ah, good evening."

The person who stepped inside defied all expectations.

Hair like a fragment of the sky, eyes like clear, shimmering water.

And that ever-present gentle smile.

"...General Student Council President."

"Heh. Just as I heard—incredibly polite, aren't you?"

"Heard... from whom?"

"From the former Defense Director. She said her kouhai was 'adorably rigid.'"

Ugh. Senpai.

When did you start spreading rumors about me?

More importantly—why was the President staring at me so intently?

"Think you can handle it?"

"Huh?"

As I hesitated, she repeated:

"The Defense Director role. Even with a former chief's recommendation, I hate incompetence."

"Ah. That's what you meant."

I understood her concern.

The Defense Office oversaw security for all Kivotos districts not under local jurisdiction—twelve critical sectors in total.

As the one overseeing it all, she'd want capable subordinates.

"No need to worry. I've assisted the former chief with most duties as her secretary."

"True. Your work speaks for itself."

She turned to leave.

"Then I'll go. You should head home too."

"Of course. Have a safe trip."

As I bowed, she walked out without another word.

On my way back, I kept turning Senpai's request over in my head.

What did she mean?

Was she warning me about the President's potential tyranny?

"Or to stop her from making a terrible mistake?"

That seemed the most plausible, but...

I wasn't the only one who could intervene. It'd be fine, right?

"Oops."

Lost in thought, I kicked a pebble on the road.

It bounced and veered off in an unexpected direction.

"...No way."

It couldn't be.

Everything the General Student Council President did was for Kivotos.

...Right? Absolutely.

"After all—"

"This is a bright, refreshing world. Blue Archive is."

Chapter Text

"...So Abydos is really being shut down, huh?"

Even those who didn’t usually follow the news couldn’t ignore it today. The once-mighty school of Kivotos had fallen into the hands of Kaiser Corporation.

...And worse, most of the remaining students had either gone missing or been declared dead.

"This doesn’t sit right with me. Especially when you look at the motto Kaiser came up with for the school."

"Turning society’s parasites into exemplary workers."

"What the hell is that? Do they really think they’re running some grand rehabilitation program?”

All they’ll do is turn students into child soldiers.

A small sigh escapes me.

Then, a single worry surfaces in my mind.

...Will the Eden Treaty proceed without a hitch?

If the treaty collapses amid everything else happening right now, it’ll be the worst-case scenario.

The General Student Council President should handle it, so it’ll probably be fine, but...

"Ah, now that I think about it..."

"Sensei," was it?

The "adult" the President supposedly called in for advice...

Well, I doubt I’ll ever meet them, so it’s better not to dwell on it.

"...What did you just say?"

"W-Well, you see—"

"Say it again. The Old Cathedral of Communion—the venue for the Eden Treaty negotiations—was attacked?"

"Y-Yes! And the General Student Council President has mobilized Valkyrie Police School to—"

SLAM!

I couldn’t help but slam my fist on the table.

Why?

Why is this happening?

Wasn’t this supposed to be a bright, refreshing world? A slice-of-life setting!

So why?

Why are schools being shut down and students dying?!

"V-Vice President...?"

"...I’ll contact Valkyrie Police School myself. You focus on gathering as much intel as possible."

My secretary bolts out of the room like she’s found a lifeline.

Watching her go, I realize my mistake.

"Hah... I shouldn’t have taken my frustration out on them like that..."

I was too emotional.

But it’s not the worst-case scenario yet.

If I do my part, the President will find a way.

If SRT Special Academy’s elites get involved... we can still turn this around.

"Haah... Haah..."

Where... did it all go wrong?

When that massive structure began sweeping through Kivotos?

When endless mechanical monsters started appearing across the city?

When Gehenna and Trinity... vanished from Kivotos, overrun by ghosts resembling the Justina Council of Saints?

No...          

It was rotten from the very beginning.

The moment the General Student Council President chose to cut off Abydos instead of extending a helping hand...

This world was already—

Ah, I shouldn’t think like this.

If anyone heard, they’d think all the blame lay with the President.

Senpai...

You were right.

The President’s intentions weren’t wrong.

But the malice we faced was beyond even her.

And because of that... the path she sought was forcibly twisted.

That’s all.

The reason why I... the entire General Student Council... all of Kivotos... is burning to ashes is that simple.

"Ah..."

I glance around.

Everything is red. The world is dyed in blood and flames.

To blame this devastation on a single person’s mistake... is far too cruel.

Pinned under the collapsed Defense Office desk, my eyes fall on the shattered nameplate:

"Shiranui Kaya – Defense Director"

And I make a vow.

"...If I’m given even one more chance..."

Next time... I won’t leave everything to her.

It wasn’t about her being extraordinary or capable.

"On behalf of the General Student Council... I must apologize to her..."

"We burdened her with far too much..."

My trembling right hand reaches for the broken pieces of the nameplate.

And then—

The world fractures in an instant.

Chapter Text

"...This place."

If my memory serves me right, this is the Defense Office located in the General Student Council’s main building.

...Wait a minute. What is going on?

"What the hell is happening?!"

A situation that makes me bolt upright from my seat.

Clatter— The chair topples backward, but I don’t have the luxury to care.

I immediately grab the nameplate to check.

Defense Director, Shiranui Kaya

...It’s intact. It should have been shattered when the Defense Office collapsed.

A simple yet precious nameplate, passed down to me by my senior.

"...This is unbelievable. What is this?"

A storm of chaotic thoughts floods my mind, and a headache rises unintentionally.

I grip the desk tightly with both hands, steadying myself before I crumble.

"Don’t tell me… it was all a dream? From Abydos’ closure to Kivotos’ ruin—all of it?"

No. It can’t be.

Everything I felt just moments ago was real.

Not some twisted nightmare of mine. They were events that truly happened in Kivotos.

"...Ha. Haha."

Realizing that, I couldn’t help but laugh.

This is hell. This world was following a script written by hell itself.

Even that extraordinary General Student Council President couldn’t handle the malevolent incidents that erupted across Kivotos—their memories still vivid in my mind.

In the end, this world must be nothing more than a scenario within the Blue Archive universe.

If so, then this phenomenon makes sense.

If my guess is right, the protagonist—the player—will soon appear and miraculously resolve every incident.

...The evils we couldn’t overcome no matter what in the first playthrough, they’ll effortlessly surpass.

"......"

Thinking this, I unconsciously let out a smile.

So that’s it! The "bright and refreshing world" the developers promised must begin after the player arrives!

From now on, nothing but happiness awaits Shiranui Kaya!

"Ah."

But. I couldn’t forgive myself for thinking this.

I was so shocked by my own thoughts that I forgot to breathe for a moment.

What did I say before I died? Didn’t I vow to apologize to the General Student Council President?

What was I apologizing for? Didn’t I regret burdening her with everything?

Isn’t that right, Shiranui Kaya?!

"...Then why am I… again."

My hands clench the table.

I’m disgusted. With myself.

The me who wants to shirk responsibility and indulge in comfort is revolting.

...I have to change.

In the last world, even as the Defense Director, I neglected part of my duties.

I grew complacent, drunk on the naive optimism that this place would always be bright and carefree.

That was unacceptable. Instead of lightening the President’s burden, I only added to it.

Once resolved, action must be swift.

First, I check the calendar. Comparing it to the last world’s timeline...

"...Two days from now, there’s no official schedule for the General Student Council."

After steadying my breath, I immediately activate the intercom linked directly to the Defense Office secretary.

I’ll need to adjust some plans.

<Yes, Defense Director. You called?>

"...Ms. Oochi. How much paperwork is piled up right now?"

<Uh... As you know, about a day’s worth.>

"Then bring it all to me now. I’ll handle it immediately."

<Huh? Ah, understood. I’ll deliver it right away.>

Beep. The intercom cuts off, and I take a moment to breathe.

...Hearing the voice of someone I thought I’d never hear again is surprisingly unsettling.

"I’ll need some time to get used to this..."

Next, I switch to another intercom—one reserved for executives, connecting directly to the General Student Council President.

<Oh my. I didn’t expect the Defense Director to use this.>

"P-President! My apologies. There’s something urgent I need to discuss. Could you spare some time two days from now?"

...Damn it. Hearing the President’s voice makes my emotions surge, and I stumble over my words.

<Hmm? It’s fine, but why? If it’s something simple, you could say it now.>

"......"

What I’m about to say is a gamble.

I know. Walking this path risks everything—even my position.

But I’ve already decided. This time, I’ll do everything I can.

<Hello, Defense Director?>

"...It’s about the command authority over SRT Special Academy."

<...Oh?>

A brief but heavy silence lingers.

I know. There’s no way she’d let someone who dares challenge her authority like this off easy...

<Well, why not? Then come to my office two days from now. Let’s say 2 PM.>

"Eh? Ah, yes. I’ll be there."

Beep. A suffocating silence follows.

Even though nothing more will come from the intercom, I can’t relax.

Wiping my forehead with trembling hands, I feel cold sweat dripping down.

"She… really agreed?"

If I hadn’t desperately pulled myself together, I might’ve blurted that out. My whole body goes slack.

...By the time Ms. Oochi arrives with the documents, I’m already slumped over my chair.

Chapter Text

"Huh? Ah, yes. I’ll make sure to go by then."

Beep.

"...Could it be… Shiranui-san remembers?"

What Shiranui had perceived as an unbearably tense silence—

In the spacious Student Council President’s office, atop the imposing work desk bearing a nameplate that read "Student Council President—" she sat there, her expression one of disbelief.

The General Student Council—an entity holding immense authority in Kivotos. And at its helm, the Student Council President.

Once hailed as a flawless, superhuman leader who guided Kivotos under the weight of countless expectations, she had realized something:

There were things she could not accomplish alone—no, things she herself could never achieve.

The Kivotos she had led had been shattered against a great reef, swallowed by towering waves. She had strained every fiber of her being to prevent such an outcome, yet in the end, she failed.

Why?

She pondered the reason endlessly.

And at last, she understood.

It had been her mistake.

Her decisions—and the chain of events they set in motion—had led to this ruin.

Only when faced with this result—the downfall of Kivotos—did she realize:

The "Teacher" she had summoned… had been right.

And so, shameless as it was, she left behind one final request for the Teacher:

"Make the choice only you can make."

In the same circumstances, she asked them to choose differently—to find a path leading to a new future.

And then, she returned.

Not for herself, but to create a stage for the Teacher.

She forged the tablet PC only the Teacher could use—Schale’s Shittim Chest—and became its AI.

She would vanish, and the Teacher would fill the void she left behind.

Yet before she could set this plan into motion, a call from the Defense Council Chairwoman presented a potential solution to its flaws.

It concerned SRT Special Academy.

"Indeed. If I disappear, no one will be able to lay a hand on SRT Special Academy."

SRT Special Academy—

One of the two schools that had delayed Kivotos’ ruin as long as possible.

But now, only one person held command over it.

If she were to vanish abruptly, the school’s authority would be left adrift.

The Defense Council Chairwoman would be the natural successor, but…

"That clever girl wouldn’t recklessly interfere. She knows exactly how things would play out."

She understood.

The current SRT was held together by her charisma and influence.

If it slipped from her grasp, no one would dare touch that poisoned chalice.

Attempt to claim it alone, and the other council chairs would turn on her.
Try to share it, and the other schools would protest.

"......"

The Student Council President brooded.

Surely, the Teacher would eventually take SRT’s students under their wing.

But with so many immediate crises to handle, their priority would inevitably be pushed back.

"It can’t be helped, but…"

Could she really leave it at that?

Abandon the girls who had staked their lives for Kivotos?

Then who could she entrust them to?

These elites, who held immunity against armed intervention from other academies…

"If Shiranui-san remembers."

She was sharp, diligent—a girl who had thrown everything into staving off Kivotos’ ruin.

If she retained memories of the previous world, she could be trusted with SRT’s students.

"Of course. I won’t let it show, Shiranui-san."

This, then, was a test.

A trial set by the Student Council President for the Defense Council Chairwoman.

She would play the part of someone ignorant, pressing Shiranui relentlessly—

Feigning no knowledge of what was to come, feigning only interest in one who dared challenge her authority.

Only by passing this test…

Would the Defense Council Chairwoman gain partial command over SRT Special Academy.

Only then would she be permitted, when absolutely necessary, to deploy force across the autonomous districts.

She would hold limited command over Kivotos’ most elite unit—students wielding its highest-grade equipment and skills.

Such was the magnitude of this authority.

Even if Shiranui remembered, she had to endure this trial.

"...I’ll be counting on you, Shiranui-san."

The Student Council President clasped her hands in prayer.

Please let the Defense Council Chairwoman remember the past world.

Please let me avoid abandoning SRT’s children.

Chapter Text

Two days had passed.
I wasn’t particularly nervous, but my hands were trembling. Maybe it was because I’d stayed up all night for two days, agonizing over how to persuade the General Student Council President.

"If I don’t do this much, there’s no way I can win against someone like her with words alone..."

Ah. The time for our meeting was almost here.

I lightly patted my cheeks with both hands—a simple ritual to pull myself together.

"Sigh. Alright, let’s go."

Carrying the prepared documents, I headed toward the General Student Council President’s office, steeling my resolve to achieve my goal no matter what.

My objective: Secure military command authority over SRT Special Academy as the Defense Director.

The reason: To distribute responsibilities in preparation for wartime scenarios. And…

"What are you doing at the door? If you’re here, come in already, Defense Director."

...Oops. I must’ve been so lost in thought that I didn’t even realize I’d arrived. Lingering here would only put me at a disadvantage, so I’d better hurry inside.

"Yes, Madam President. Defense Director Shiranui Kaya, entering."

"...You. Don’t you think you’re being a little too formal?"

The General Student Council President sounded slightly exasperated.

Hmm. Even I’d admit this might be overdoing it, but…

"Not at all. Even if this is an unofficial meeting, I’m the one making a request here, so it’s only right that I speak as respectfully as—"

"Ah~ ah, spare me the formalities. Let’s cut straight to the point."

She waved her hand dismissively, urging me to skip the preamble.

Well, if that was what she wanted, I’d get straight to it.

"Understood. Then I’ll state my request plainly: Please grant me military command authority over SRT Special Academy."

*(*Military command authority: Operational command over combat units, the authority to mobilize actual forces.)

Instantly, her gaze sharpened—like a hyena searching for a place to bite.

"...How odd. I distinctly remember telling you that SRT Special Academy is an organization under the General Student Council, and all executive-level officers hold rights over it. Surely someone of your position as Defense Director wouldn’t fail to understand that..."

"No, that’s not what I meant. I’m speaking to you now as the supreme commander of SRT."

The President’s brow twitched slightly.
But I couldn’t stop now. The dice had already been cast.

"It’s all well and good to say we hold rights, but what practical use are they if we can’t actually mobilize or manage them?"

"......"

"However, as the Defense Director responsible for Kivotos’ overall security, I believe I should at least hold military command authority over SRT Special Academy—an organization under the General Student Council."

After finishing, I placed the documents I’d brought onto the table.
I hoped she’d forgive me for not setting them down lightly—there were dozens of pages.

"These documents outline the distribution of authority among armed groups in each autonomous district of Kivotos. I hope they aid in your judgment."

For example, Gehenna Academy’s Prefect Team allowed each executive to mobilize forces within their own jurisdiction.

Though the authority I sought would only be a half-measure—requiring delegation and approval from you, the supreme commander—even that would let me respond to emergencies as they arose!

"...You’re not wrong, Defense Director Shiranui. But do you think the leaders of each academy will see it that way?"

The President, who had been quietly reviewing the documents, dropped this bombshell of a question.

And it was the biggest hurdle in this discussion.

"Will they accept someone other than me holding authority over SRT?"

My answer was simple.

"They’ll have to."

"Excuse me?"

"If they can’t even accept the General Student Council President personally delegating limited authority to the Defense Director, then what right do they have to complain?"

This was a direct approach.

I was asking for partial authority over a special forces unit under the General Student Council—one that aligned with my duties. Who could possibly object?

"...Were you always like this?"

"...No, I wasn’t."

Her gaze shifted to something more… peculiar. The tension in the room eased slightly.

"Haah. Fine. I’ll admit, managing SRT alone has been a burden. This should be acceptable to everyone."

"Thank you."

I bowed my head in gratitude. I hadn’t expected her to grant my request so smoothly…

"Then, I’ll take my leave now."

"Go ahead. Just make sure no one finds out."

Naturally.

This had been a secret discussion, after all.

Officially, it was just the General Student Council President—who’d found managing SRT alone too difficult—delegating partial authority to the Defense Director.

"Ah, I almost forgot to say one more thing."

"Yes?"

"Heheh. Take care of things for me, alright?"

"Uh… sure?"

...I should’ve realized right then, from her unusually mischievous expression.

...Damn it.

Chapter Text

"Ah… Really. What am I supposed to do about this?"

As I cycle through countless scenarios in my head—planning and discarding them—the room buzzes with arguments.

At first glance, this seems like just another routine General Student Council meeting.

…Except for one glaring issue: the president’s seat sits empty.

"What was the Director Secretary doing while the president went missing?!"

"Health Director! Mind your tone! Do you honestly believe the Director Secretary allowed this to happen?!"

True to form, the Health Director and Cultural Director are at each other’s throats.
Normally, someone would intervene, but today, no one has the energy.
The weight of the crisis has sapped everyone’s resolve.

"Fine! Assume the disappearance was unavoidable! We could limp along without the president!"

The Health Director—usually even more hot-blooded than the Athletics Director—shouts, her eyes bloodshot.

…I understand. Given how fiercely she cares for her duties, this is restraint.

"But!! No one has access to Sanctum Tower’s authority now! What’s the plan?!"

The implication is undeniable: the General Student Council has lost control over public facilities and critical infrastructure.

Kivotos’ administrative functions are paralyzed.

"…The individual the president summoned will resolve it. Soon."

"'Soon'? Define 'soon'!"

"I… cannot give a timeline."

The Chief Secretary’s words are heavy, her solution vague.

The Health Chief’s face darkens with despair.

"It hasn’t even been a week, but we’re already at our limit. Right, Transportation Director?"

"Honestly? Yes. Power output’s declining. The rail system’s on the verge of collapse."

When pressed, the Transportation Director answers tersely, irritation flickering in her voice.

The energy grid is clearly the weakest link.

"Director Secretary, this is a domino effect. First power, then transport, communications, city services, healthcare—everything will fail. And we know what comes next."

The Health Director's voice is eerily calm now.

…She must’ve realized anger won’t help.

But how could she stay silent?

Her beloved Kivotos—

"Anarchy. Not just protests—crime will explode. And then… I’ll have to treat the casualties, but I… I can’t—"

…The stress has ravaged her. She’s always loathed seeing people suffer.

"…Sigh."

Even I’m not immune to the tension.

A transport shutdown means security forces can’t mobilize quickly.

But maintaining patrols would stretch Valkyrie to breaking point.

"…What was the president thinking?"

When news of her disappearance broke, I dismissed it.

Someone as meticulous doesn’t vanish unless she wants to.

And that’s the truth.

"……"

Yes.

She chose to disappear.

Others might not grasp it, but I do.

That day, when we met to negotiate SRT’s partial command— Only now do I understand her final gesture before we parted.

I press my palms to my face, digging my fingers into my temples.

If I don’t, I might snap.

"Why? Why?!"

Why vanish? Why leave Sanctum Tower’s authority locked?

More crucially—this didn’t happen in the last timeline.

What changed?

"…Is this part of her 'scenario' too?"

A thought strikes me.

The Director Secretary mentioned the "Adult"—the "Sensei," surely?

The one the president invited before.

"…If she orchestrated this to hand Kivotos to them, it makes sense."

This theory hinges on one assumption: the president also regressed.

Otherwise, why go this far?

"Hah… It fits."

From what I recall, Sensei was principled.

Their skill rivaled the president’s, but their ideals clashed.

If she blamed herself for the last timeline’s ruin, she might’ve chosen to retreat entirely—letting Sensei lead.

In that light… the puzzle pieces align.

"If this was her choice… I’ve no right to resent her."

After all, I’m the one who burdened her with everything.

I can only pray she wasn’t wrong.

Ten days since Sanctum Tower slipped from our grasp.

With the city’s functions crumbling, I—Shiranui Kaya—enter SRT Special Academy.

SRT’s fate was decided succinctly:
"Under the Defense Director's command, per the president’s delegation."

In peacetime, only one squad remains active.

Full mobilization requires majority approval from department heads.

But it’s enough.

With them here, Kivotos’ order can endure.

I have to believe that.

And by them—

"Oh? You’re early."

I step into the meeting room, a flicker of anticipation in my chest—only to find them all waiting.
Their fox-like ears belie the razor-sharp glint in their eyes.

"…You’re the Defense Director?"

"Correct. A pleasure, FOX Squad. I’m Shiranui Kaya, acting commander by the president’s authority."

The unit that captured Calamity Fox Wakamo.

The ones who dismantled Kaiser’s operations with surgical precision.

Even among SRT’s elites, they’re the unrivaled apex.

…FOX Squad.

Chapter Text

Meeting Minutes Regarding the SRT Special Academy

Chief Administrator: Next, we’ll discuss the SRT Special Academy...

Transportation Director: Huh? Is this really necessary? The Defense Director already has command authority—why bother?

Health Director: I agree. This agenda seems unnecessary.

Finance Director: Still, there’s a clarification to make. Even though the Defense Director received command authority from the General Student Council President, full control is a separate issue.

Defense Director: Excuse me, everyone? Let’s clarify terminology. Please refer to it accurately as "military command authority"—not just "command authority." Vagueness could cause misunderstandings.

Transportation Director: Ugh, too tedious. Let’s move on~

Defense Director: Sigh.

Chief Administrator: So, Defense Director, to confirm: You’ve officially received military command authority over the SRT Special Academy from the General Student Council President. Correct?

Defense Director: Yes. That’s correct.

Chief Administrator: However, this is limited to one squad. Authority over larger personnel requires majority approval from the General Student Council’s executives, as documented.

Defense Director: Correct. The records are accurate.

Finance Director: …Huh. I hadn’t noticed those details.

Health Director: In short, your authority isn’t as extensive as it seemed?

Defense Director: Precisely.

Chief Administrator: That said, the SRT Special Academy’s supreme command is currently in limbo.

Chief Administrator: Normally, as acting General Student Council President, I should assume supreme command, but...

Chief Administrator: Doing so would provoke protests from other districts.

Chief Administrator: Thus, I propose granting the Defense Director—who already holds delegated authority—equivalent supreme command, as per the earlier document.

Chief Administrator: All in favor, raise your hands...

Defense Director: …Oh my.

Finance Director: Well, if it’s identical to the prior terms…

Human Resources Director: No objections.

Health Director: It’s not like the Defense Director would misuse this.

Cultural Director: No issues here.

Transportation Director: Huh. You two collaborate surprisingly well~

Health Director: Excuse me?

Cultural Director: Care to repeat that?

Chief Administrator: …Motion carried unanimously. The Defense Director is granted limited supreme command of the SRT Special Academy.

"Looking back, everyone trusted me without question."

I sip my coffee, reminiscing about the meeting. Nothing beats instant coffee—cheap, tasty, and efficient. The perfect office-worker fuel… Wait, am I even an office worker?

"P-Please! Spare me! I won’t do it again!"

"Silence."

"Ghk—!"

Two figures stand before my table:

• A businessman, writhing with his arm locked.
• Yukino of FOX Squad, doing the locking.

"So. You wanted to discuss… this, I assume?"

I signal Yukino to ease up, giving the gasping man a reprieve before sliding a document forward.

"A local gang recently targeted a school with unusual focus. My investigation revealed something amusing…"

"A certain company hired them to strong-arm the school into a security contract."

"H-How did you—?!"

"And then you tried to bribe me to ignore it?"

The man pales further. Yukino isn’t even applying pressure—if he’s this fragile, he should see a doctor.

"...You dared offer me this filthy money?"

Disgusting.

While some of us lose sleep upholding Kivotos’ peace, vermin like this skulk in the shadows.

"Yukino, status on the squad?"

[Encrypted data]

"They’ve arrived and completed suppression."

As expected of FOX Squad.

"...W-What does that mean?!"

"Oh? You catch on fast~"

I’d dispatched the squad to dismantle the security company behind this.

"Yes. Your company, specifically."

"Th-That’s impossible—!"

"Now you’re white as a sheet."

"Tsk. You shouldn’t have exploited Kivotos’ chaos."

Nightfall.

Through the office window, darkened buildings stretch into the distance.
…The paralysis of Kivotos’ administration feels real now.

"Defense Director."

"Yes, Yukino?"

Behind me, Yukino stands, a stubborn candle flickering in her grip.

"...Was that punishment sufficient?"

Ah, the businessman.

"For now. We lack resources to detain him."

"Forcing lifetime reparations to that school is enough."

Order must endure, by any means. If it collapses, the General Student Council drowns.

"...You should rest."

"I am resting."

"Not what I—… Never mind. Pointless."
(…Your mind never stops, does it?)

Chapter Text

When news first broke that the Student Council President had gone missing, SRT Special Academy was thrown into chaos.
A few sharp-witted students knew that the only reason SRT had been allowed to exist at all was thanks to the President’s influence.

The uproar died down only after an official letter arrived from the Student Council.
In short, the letter stated: "Defense Office Director Shiranui Kaya will now assume limited command authority over SRT Special Academy."

This news split the students into two factions—those who protested and those who accepted it.
The protesters argued, "Isn’t the Defense Office the same group that took bribes from Kaiser back in the day?!"

The accepting side countered, "The current Defense Office Director is two generations removed from that scandal—why dredge up ancient history?"

And those who accepted it—we remembered.
The fact that the Student Council President herself had personally delegated part of her authority to the Defense Office Director.
That was why most of us fell silent.
After all, this was the President’s own arrangement.

"Can we really trust the Defense Office Director?"

"...She’s the one the President herself entrusted with authority. There should be no doubt about her character or ability."

Responding to Vice Squad Leader Niko’s question, I turned the doorknob.
Today, the Defense Office Director had requested a meeting with us, and she had reserved an entire room for it.
Nothing about the place stood out—except for the round table at the center.

"Hmm? A round table?"

Kurumi’s eyes sparkled with interest as she spoke.
…Honestly, even I was a little surprised by this.

A round table symbolized equality.
Was this her way of saying she wouldn’t treat us like pawns?
No—better not jump to conclusions. For now, we should just take our seats and wait for her.
Not long after we sat down, the door opened.

"Oh? You’re all here already."

A relaxed demeanor—yet with an air of quiet intensity.
So this was the woman responsible for maintaining peace across all of Kivotos. Impressive.

"...You’re the Defense Office Director?"

"Yes. Pleasure to meet you, FOX Squad. I’m Shiranui Kaya, the Defense Office Director who will be temporarily assuming command in place of the missing Student Council President."

After introducing herself, she immediately took the remaining seat at the table.
Then, she handed each of us a set of documents.

"What’s this?"

"A roadmap to maintain public order in the President’s absence. I’d appreciate it if you’d take a look."

In response to Otogi’s question, the Director placed a projector on the table.

The projected image matched the documents—a detailed roadmap.

"Whoa… When did she even prepare all this? It’s only been ten days since the President disappeared…"

"Thanks to the cooperation of the entire Defense Office. I’m confident it’s a practical yet effective plan."

The entire squad’s eyes widened as they scanned the document.
It wasn’t particularly groundbreaking, but the sheer depth and precision of the plan were overwhelming.
For example, to prevent crime, one-fifth of Valkyrie Police School’s personnel would be deployed to patrol District U.
Though the numbers were small, the patrol routes were meticulously designed to eliminate blind spots.
The remaining four-fifths would focus on suppressing crime in other autonomous districts.

"Hmm… This would definitely maintain public order to some extent, but…"

"Yes. I know what you’re thinking, Niko. If something beyond Valkyrie’s capacity occurs, this system would collapse instantly."

The Director answered Niko’s doubts with unwavering confidence.

"That’s where you come in. FOX Squad—SRT’s elite unit. I believe you’re more than capable of handling any threats to Kivotos’s security. Please, assist me in maintaining order during this chaotic time."

The Defense Office Director bowed her head deeply.
…A request. I never expected to hear such a sincere plea from a superior after enrolling at SRT.

We accepted.
Under the Defense Office Director's command, FOX Squad sprang into action.
We shut down corporations trying to scam security services,
raided a hideout where delinquents were plotting to loot local stores,
and recaptured escaped troublemakers.

Most missions ended late at night or early morning.
Every time we returned, the Director would be there, working by candlelight.
"No need to waste electricity just because we’re working late," she’d say, stopping us whenever we tried to turn on the lights.

…Lately, we’d even started a bet.
Who would collapse from exhaustion first?
The loser would have to buy ice cream for everyone.

That’s how relentless the workload was.
The squad was visibly wearing down, and even the Defense Office staff had dark circles under their eyes.
Then, one day—

The Director burst into laughter after answering an intercom call.
Just as we all thought, "She’s finally lost it,"—

"Finally! FINALLY! Sensei, you—!!"

With a face full of joy—one we’d never seen before—she called out to us.

"FOX Squad! There’s somewhere I need to go—would you follow me?"

Chapter Text

"Ahh... I can’t control this feeling! To think Sensei has finally arrived!"

"Director of Defense. Is this 'Sensei' really that important?"

Yukino-san, walking beside me, asks the question.
Of course they are. Isn’t that obvious?

"According to Chief Administrator Rin, Sensei was granted full authority by the Student Council President. That means they must also have control over the Sanctum Tower."

"Oh! So does that mean this mess is finally over?"

Kurumi-san smiles, her voice brimming with excitement.
...Well, I may have overworked them a bit, but our Defense Division has been pushed just as hard, so please forgive me.

"Wait. Isn’t that dangerous? The Student Council President’s authority is supposed to go to someone worthy of being president..."

"Ah, I don’t think we need to worry about that. The President herself left a letter transferring authority to Sensei before she disappeared."

"Then there’s no problem."

Otogi-san cuts off her own concern after a brief moment of hesitation.
Hmm. Does everyone trust the Student Council President that much?
Not that I’m any different, of course.

"Rin-san! Where’s Sensei?"

The moment we arrive at the Student Council lobby, I look for Rin-san.
But no matter where I turn, I don’t see them.
Did something urgent come up, forcing them to step away?

"Director. There’s someone over there."

"...Oh my. You’re right."

Following Yukino-san’s gaze, I spot someone slumped over a desk, fast asleep.
A sharp ping! of intuition hits me—this must be Sensei.

"Whoa. This person’s way too deep in sleep. Waking them up feels like a crime."

"Yeah. But their expression looks a little pained. Probably not a good dream."

While Kurumi-san and Niko-san debate their first impressions, I take a moment to think.
Now’s probably the best time to speak up.

"Heh. Everyone, given how things have turned out, you can consider today your last day of work."

"......"

Huh? Why is everyone’s face frozen...?
The atmosphere just dropped several degrees...?
As I stand there bewildered, Yukino-san sighs and speaks up.

"...Director. How many times must I say it? You really need to consider how your tone affects your words."

"Ah. Aah~! So that’s what you meant!"

"Geez, you scared me!"

 "Please, run heart-stopping statements through a filter first..."

...Oh. So they took it the wrong way.
Honestly, FOX Squad, you’re all way too quick to jump to conclusions.

"There’s no way I’d say something like that with that meaning, right?"

"...So what you meant was, 'You’ve all worked hard, so starting tomorrow, you’ll rotate shifts with another squad.' Right?"

"Obviously that’s what I meant!"

As expected of Yukino-san! She grasped my intentions perfectly!
Just as I’m feeling relieved, Yukino-san trudges over, grabs my shoulders, and stares me down.

"...Please. Just say it like that next time, Director. I’m begging you."

"Eh, really? Is my wording that easy to misinterpret?"

Seeing Yukino-san’s unusually serious expression flusters me, and the others chime in.

"Well~... We’ve been at this for over a month, so we don’t mind~."

"But if you said that to someone you just met, they’d definitely take it the wrong way."

"...I have no words."

"So, the Director's all depressed because of that?"

"Mhm. Delivered with zero deviation. No other cause."

Uuugh... I’m just a bumbling idiot who keeps causing misunderstandings...
Rin-san and Yukino-san are talking nearby, but I’m tuning them out...

"Hey, c’mon, y’know? Some people find that ‘final villain’ aura cool! I like it! Those eyes!"

"That is... not comforting in the slightest."

Kurumi-san tries her best to cheer me up, but... it’s having the opposite effect...
Sniff... And here I thought Oochi was just jumpy around me...
What do I do about my demeanor? Do I need to fix it...?

Chapter Text

"Sensei!!"

Realizing they could no longer afford to delay, Rin calls out to wake Sensei.
It’s the right decision. Even though Sensei is here, we haven’t yet regained control of Sanctum Tower.
Ah, good—Sensei’s eyes open, and they begin to stir.

"I did ask you to wait a moment, but I suppose you were tired. I didn’t expect you to be sleeping so deeply that waking you would be difficult."

Huh. Seems like Rin’s impression here is similar to that of FOX Squad.
…By the way, Sensei is quite good-looking. Is this what they call "narrative plausibility"?

Ah, Sensei is fully awake now.
They rub their slightly tousled hair, eyes still heavy with sleep.

"…Seems like you were dreaming. Now that you’re awake, please focus. Let me explain the situation again. I am Nanagami Rin, an executive of the General Student Council in the academy city of Kivotos. And the student standing beside me is another executive from the same council—"

"Shiranui Kaya. Pleasure to meet you, Sensei."

After everyone in the lobby exchanges brief greetings, we take the elevator to the reception room.
…Seems we have guests waiting.

"Wait! Acting President! Found you! I’ve been waiting! Call the General Student Council President!…Huh? Who’s this adult next to you? And why are the Defense Office and FOX Squad here? Don’t tell me you’re trying to force us out?!"

"…Hayase-san. As I’ve explained, there’s no way the General Student Council would bring SRT Special Academy here for something like that. We’re here for a different purpose."

"Ugh… Fine, whatever."

To think they’d jump to such wild conclusions the moment they see me—how harsh.
I really did meet everyone in person, smiled earnestly, and persuaded them properly, you know?

"…Chief Administrator. We’ve been waiting."

"…We’re here to meet the General Student Council President. The Disciplinary Committee Director is demanding a satisfactory explanation for the current situation."

And the other two as well!
Why won’t they say anything but keep staring at me with suspicious eyes?!

"…We’ve been caught by troublesome people."

RIN-SAAAAAAN?!?!?! HAVE YOU LOST IT?! YOU’VE FINALLY LOST IT, HAVEN’T YOU?!

It makes sense! After over a month of overwork, anyone would crack!
But could you at least not say something like that in front of representatives from the Big Three schools who came here to protest?!

"Greetings, student council members, disciplinary committee members, and other ‘spare-time-having extras’ from each academy."

NOOOOOOOOOO!!!! STOOOOOOP!!!RIN-SAN, PLEASE STOP!!!

If you respond like this, the General Student Council will only look like it’s "got something up its sleeve"!!!

"Ughhh… My stomach… My head…"

"(…Defense Director. Pull yourself together.)"

As I start to lose my grip on reality, Yukino supports me from behind.

"You’re here to hold us accountable for the chaos unfolding in Kivotos, I assume?"

"If you know, then do something about it! You’re the General Student Council! Thousands of academy districts are in chaos! Our academy’s wind power plant shut down a few days ago!"

"Rumors are spreading that the Federal Correctional Bureau is no longer detaining delinquents, and they’ve become even more unruly than usual."

"Similarly, the frequency of attacks by delinquents like the Sukeban on our commuting students is slowly increasing. The Valkyrie Police School has been helping, but it’s only a stopgap measure."

"Illegal distribution of unmarked weapons—tanks, helicopters, and the like—has also tripled.
This isn’t a normal situation by any means."

At Rin’s words, everyone voices their grievances, each representing their academy’s problems.

"…Wait! Why is our school suffering the most?! Ughhh… What is the General Student Council President even doing in this situation? Why hasn’t she shown herself for weeks?
I need to see her right now!"

As the protests grow louder, Rin finally acknowledges her status for the first time.

"The General Student Council President is currently absent. To be blunt… she’s missing."

"Ah, hello, Sensei. I’m from Millennium Science School—"

"You can ignore that noisy girl. Now, let’s continue—"

Ugh… I’m not some villain… I have no intention of privately controlling SRT either…
I wouldn’t use thermobaric rounds on civilians, nor do I plan to steal Rin-san’s acting position…

"(…Snap out of it, Defense Director.)"

Huh?! What was I thinking?!
Hearing Yukino’s quiet voice, I fully regain my senses.

"Who are you calling noisy?! I-I’m Hayase Yuuka! Remember that, Sensei!"

["Nice to meet you."]

"(Thanks, Yukino-san. I almost fell into a hellish nightmare there.)"

"(You looked like you were about to, so I woke you up.)"

While Yukino and I exchange whispers too quiet for others to hear,
Rin explains Sensei’s role.

In short, they’ve created an absurdly powerful club called "Schale" and appointed Sensei as its advisor.

"I don’t know why the General Student Council President would create an institution with this much authority, but…"

As I suspected before… it’s almost certain now.
She disappears from Kivotos, leaving only her authority to Sensei.
That way, she creates a different outcome from the last world.
Otherwise, none of this makes sense.

"Schale’s clubroom is located about 30 kilometers outside the city."

"We need to take Sensei there," Rin says, turning on the intercom.

"Momoka. Prepare a helicopter for direct transport to Schale’s—"

Right before she finishes—
BOOM. A massive explosion shakes the area.

"W-Wait?! What was that?!"

Hayase’s near-screaming voice is drowned out as Oochi calls me.
…This must be related to that explosion.

"Yes. Defense Director Shiranui Kaya speaking."

<D-Director! We just got word from the Federal Correctional Bureau!Seven of the most dangerous criminals currently imprisoned have escaped!>

…Damn it.
I quickly turn to Rin.

"Acting President Rin, I’ll take my leave now to handle countermeasures. Sensei. Originally, FOX Squad and I were supposed to escort you to Schale’s clubroom, but it seems our plans will have to change. My apologies."

["No need to apologize."]

["You have your own duties to attend to, don’t you, Kaya?"]

"…Thank you for understanding. Then, excuse me."

As for the others gathered here… I’m sorry, but there’s no time for individual farewells.
Let’s go, FOX Squad. My apologies, but your shift might be extended further.

Chapter Text

"......"

Of all times... for dangerous criminals to break out now.
Just a little more. If we had held out just a little longer, even if battered, we would’ve succeeded in maintaining order.
Seven of them—including the "Calamity Fox"!?

What do we do about this? Can we recapture those prisoners right away?
If we can’t, the damage... the public safety...

"...Defense Director, are you alright?"

I turn my head toward the members of FOX Squad—the only operational force we have left.
Yukino-san looks at me with concern.
Though, to say there’s no exhaustion on her face would be a lie.

And the others, too.
For over a month, they’ve worked alongside me without proper rest.
...I know I should ask for more from them, but I also know pushing further would be too much.

As humiliating as it is, recapturing them immediately seems impossible.
In that case, how should we plan our next move...?

"...Defense Director."

"Yes. What is it?"

"Leave it to us."

The moment Yukino-san’s words reach my ears, I immediately turn around.
And there—I see the confident faces of FOX Squad.

"Just leave the Calamity Fox to us!"

"Yeah. The other criminals might take time to act... but not her, right? She’s the one you’re most worried about, isn’t she, Defense Director?"

"You didn’t just assume we’re exhausted, did you? We’ve still got plenty left in us."

Kurumi-san, Niko-san, Otogi-san.

And Yukino-san.

"We’ve already arrested her once. A second time will be even easier. We will bring Kosaka Wakamo in."

...Right. I don’t have to shoulder everything alone, agonizing in silence.
The Defense Department and FOX Squad have been supporting me in every way possible.

"...Sigh. I think my emotions got the better of me for a moment. Very well. I’ll leave the immediate recapture of the Calamity Fox to all of you."

Even if we’re all battered, let’s do our best together.
I’ll focus on what only I can do...

"Please, be carefu—"

"...That’s what I said, but..."

"It’s a little worrying, isn’t it? We’re not exactly in peak condition right now."

Niko and Otogi exchange uneasy words.
Right. It’s true—we’ve been running nonstop for over a month without proper rest.
We probably can’t fight at full strength.

"But it’s not like we have a choice, right?"

Kurumi flashes them a challenging smirk.
Yeah. How could we turn away from this situation and just go rest?

"...We can’t dump this on the Defense Director, who’s already carrying the burden of responsibility for all of us. Don’t you all agree?"

Equipment checks are done.
As I stand up to depart, everyone looks at me.
Waiting for my words.

"...Even if our justice is covered in dust and grime...There are still people who need it."

A memory from over a year ago resurfaces.
Back when we were nervous yet proudly spoke of our justice in front of the cameras.
Who would’ve thought I’d look back on that memory—a little embarrassed, yet proud?

"Let’s go, FOX Squad. For the sake of those waiting for our justice."

Operation: Fox Hunt.
Let us carry out our justice.

Chapter Text

After the Defense Director Leaves the Reception Room

The remaining people board the helicopter Momoka prepared at Rin’s request and fly toward the Schale clubroom. During this, Yuuka expresses confusion about why she has to accompany Sensei, but…

"So, in a situation where criminals have escaped, you’re suggesting we send Sensei—who could be killed by a single stray bullet—alone?"

Rin’s sharp retort silences her, and Yuuka reluctantly agrees to come along.

Four people and one other.

The student council’s helicopter, carrying this small group and heading for Schale’s clubroom, is attacked less than ten minutes after takeoff.

"Wh-who dares attack the student council’s helicopter?!"

Yuuka shouts in protest, but no one inside the helicopter answers her.

"...Fufu."

The attacker is a fox—wearing a fox mask.

A student who had been imprisoned by the Federal Correctional Bureau for a long time and harbors deep hostility toward the student council.

A girl capable of burning with passionate love for someone.

"Where did those seven prisoners go?"

"I don’t know. All seven removed their tracking devices, so..."

"Tch. They noticed, huh? Then let’s summarize each prisoner’s characteristics."

"Understood. I’ll prepare a list right away."

Upon arriving at the director’s office, Secretary Oochi greets me amid the noisy whirring of printers. Everyone else is working frantically, too.

With peace hanging by a thread, who has time to rest?

After sitting in the Defense Director's seat and waiting briefly, Secretary Oochi hands me the list.

Looking through it… They’re clearly dangerous criminals, but most have patterns or convictions behind their crimes.

"Hah… At least we can manage most of them. The real problem is the Calamity Fox..."

As I mutter to myself, Oochi speaks up.

"The FOX Squad didn’t come with you… Are they going after the Calamity Fox?"

"...Yes. At the very least, we must capture her. Every time she rampages, buildings are destroyed and dozens are injured. We have to stop her early. Fortunately, she can’t have gone far yet. If FOX Squad moves now, they can arrest her."

Otherwise… With Kivotos’s administrative functions already paralyzed, the damage from her chaos would spiral out of control.

As my mouth and brain work overtime—beep—my intercom activates.

Is this a call from Rin?

"Yes, Rin. What’s wrong?"

-"Send FOX Squad to Schale’s clubroom immediately!"

"...What?"

-"The Calamity Fox—Kosaka Wakamo—is attacking the helicopter carrying Sensei!"

The moment I hear Rin’s words, I grab the radio connected to FOX Squad. No time to waste!

"FOX Squad, emergency! Kosaka Wakamo is currently firing near Schale’s clubroom! Sensei’s helicopter is in danger!"

"Understood. Moving out now."

The transmission cuts off, as if no further words are needed.

"KYAHAHA! Finally took down that trashy student council helicopter!!"

"Technically, it was an emergency landing..."

Thanks to Wakamo’s attack, the helicopter is forced into an emergency landing.

While they manage to land safely, it’s now grounded without repairs—still far from Schale’s clubroom.

And Wakamo’s hostility is palpable.

"...Looks like we have no choice but to fight."

"Ugh… How did it come to this…?"

As Suzumi grips her gun and prepares for battle, Yuuka reluctantly follows, her face twisted in dismay.

"Sensei, please stay back. Your safety is our top priority."

"Hasumi’s right. You’re not from Kivotos—a single bullet could be fatal for you."

"So? Done talking?!"

The moment Hasumi and Chinatsu urge Sensei to retreat, Wakamo charges.

Her assault seems like a rage-fueled rampage, but it’s a calculated move.

As the students open fire, she ducks behind cover—then suddenly turns and runs.

"Huh?! Why’s she running away?!"

"...Wait. That’s the direction the helicopter came from."

Wakamo sprints off without hesitation, leaving the students stunned.

Just moments ago, she seemed ready to kill them—why flee now?

["Maybe she has business at Schale’s clubroom first."]

Sensei's words snap them back to focus.

Didn’t the messenger say something was hidden beneath Schale’s clubroom?

If Wakamo gets her hands on it first—

"W-we have to chase her! We can’t let her get away!"

A sense of impending disaster drives them forward, but Wakamo is already far ahead.

How can they possibly catch up?

After a drawn-out chase, they finally reach the outskirts of Schale’s clubroom.

"No good! She’ll get inside before us!"

"We can’t snipe her from this distance!"

Then—another helicopter’s roar fills the air.

Not the student council’s, but SRT Special Academy’s.

Its presence now can only mean one thing.

"Kosaka Wakamo!"

Three harnesses drop from the hovering helicopter.

Sliding down at high speed—three foxes.

"Right here, right now—we’re taking you down!"

"You damn student council hounds!!"

Chapter Text

While Kurumi, the pointman, confronts the target, she radios Otogi.

"FOX 4, do you have a visual?"

"Clear line of sight. The building height here worked in our favor."

"FOX 2, Sensei and VIPs are secure. FOX 3 and I will engage the target. FOX 4, take your shot whenever you see an opening."

"Roger!"

"Damn... it..."

"...Tango down. Moving to secure the target now."

...Hah. Less troublesome than the first time we fought.
Guess being locked up for so long made her rusty. Good for us.

"Why do you people... always... come after me..."

"Seriously?! This is only the second time! And do we need a reason to arrest a criminal?!"

Kurumi, battered from holding the front line, retorts in disbelief. Niko glares as if she has much to say but holds back.

"No need for long speeches, Kosaka Wakamo. Your original sentence, plus the prison break—
This time, you’ll rot in jail for good."

"Kgh... How dare you—!"

The right side of her mask shatters mid-fight, revealing his gaze—fixed on us.
Not despair, but a flame still burning, hot yet icy.

"Ugh... Her eyes—"

Even Kurumi, stepping forward to cuff him, flinches at the intensity.
The strange standoff lingers until Sensei and others approach.

"We owe you our lives. As expected of FOX Squad—SRT’s elite."

"...Flattery from the Defense Office's vice director? I’m honored."

While the groups exchange formalities, Sensei approaches Wakamo.

...Well, Kurumi’s there. Should be fine.

"Wait, Sensei! Don’t get close—!"

["I just need to talk."]

"......Huh?"

Wait. Wakamo’s movements—strange.
A second ago, she was trembling, struggling to rise with venomous eyes—
Now, her killing intent fades. She freezes.

"Kurumi! Cuff her NOW!"

"Huh? Oh, right! The cuffs—"

"S-sorry for the trouble—!!"

An anomaly. Despite her exhaustion—she moves.
No one reacts in time.

"W-Wakamo’s—?!"

"She’s running!"

"Dammit, Otogi! Can you take the shot?"

<...No good. Out of ammo.>

"...So, what you just explained—that’s why you’re doing this?"

"......Yes, Defense Director."

Before me, FOX Squad balances on their hands and feet, heads bowed to the floor.

...Where did they even learn this pose? Just stand up properly!

"Well... The senpais taught us."

"Yeah. Said it’s for really big mistakes."

They rise, casually dropping concerning wisdom.

Wait—just because your senpais made you do it doesn’t mean I asked for this!

"...Anyway. The rest went smoothly. Sensei reclaimed Schale’s control at the clubroom and transferred authority to us...Honestly, I’m just relieved it’s over."

"My apologies. If I’d been more thorough, we could’ve caught Wakamo..."

"Ah, Yukino-san. Relax. I told you, didn’t I? You’re doing me the favor. No need for formalities."

Besides, I’d never blame FOX Squad for this.
If even Yukino’s oversight failed, it was practically an act of God.
And they pushed themselves to help our city’s safety. Who am I to criticize?

"Honestly, it’s not even a major issue now. With Kivotos’s systems back online, each academy’s security will stabilize. We’ll just deploy Valkyrie officers to preempt the Calamity Fox’s next move. She’s meticulous—cut off her planning, and we minimize damage."

...Though I’ll definitely hear about it in the next council meeting...

"So. FOX Squad, return to SRT and rest. Thank you—truly—for standing with me these past months."

"...No. We should be thanking you. Because of you, we protected our juniors—and our justice. We’re the ones grateful. Really."

"We’ll recommend a replacement squad within three days. Skilled, promising students."

Yukino and Niko each leave a parting word before exiting.
...Yes. Good work, everyone. Till next time.

Alone in the quiet office, I sip long-cold instant coffee.

"...Finally. A moment’s rest."

Those were the last words I heard that day.

Chapter Text

I carefully read through the documents sent by the SRT Special Academy.

RABBIT 1: Tsukiyuki Miyako
RABBIT 2: Sorai Saki
RABBIT 3: Kazekura Moe
RABBIT 4: Kasumizawa Miyu

"So these are the promising and highly skilled individuals recommended by the FOX squad?"

• The squad leader, Miyako, possesses exceptional improvisation skills in combat-simulated training.
• The pointman, Saki, has outstanding academic records and a flawless grasp of theory.
• Moe, the intelligence, administrative, and helicopter operations specialist, can manage nearly everything the squad needs on her own.
• On top of that, they’ve even faced Veritas’s Protect forces multiple times…
• And finally, the sniper, Miyu…

"She’s an exceptional sniper due to her faint presence… and she can also charge into battle with a sniper rifle?"

"The FOX squad really sent us some incredibly capable people."

The scary part? They’re still inexperienced first-years.

"Heh heh heh… I’m really looking forward to seeing how much they’ll grow…"

"...Gulp."

"...Saki, aren’t you a little too tense?"

"Sh-shut up! Look at yourself—your whole body’s stiff as a board!"

Our RABBIT squad had just arrived at the General Student Council’s main office.
We were here to take over the duties previously handled by the FOX squad—our senpais.

"Uuu… I’m scared…"

"...Hey. Can’t we just go back? There are plenty of other squads in SRT, right?"

But despite this being an honor, all of us, including myself, were trembling in fear.
The reason? The Defense Director, who holds absolute authority over us.
Or more accurately, it was because of what Kurumi-senpai had said:

"Huh? What’s the Defense Director like? Oh, she’s terrifying~."

"Back when we were working nonstop on missions, she came up to us and handed out bitter coffee."

"Then she asked, ‘Are you tired?’—gave me the chills, I tell ya! Right, Otogi?"

"...Tch. Well, it’s not a lie."

She’s scary.
How did our senpais manage to survive such a hellscape?
A whole month of walking on thin ice every single day…

"...Staying here won’t solve anything. Let’s go, everyone."

"Ehh? Seriously?"

But it’s fine. We have to push through.
Thankfully, we weren’t given any unreasonable missions, so operations shouldn’t be a problem.
We’re just using the Defense Director in our pursuit of justice.

Knock knock.

"Yes, come in."

"Pardon the intrusion, Defense Director."

The people stepping through the door were the RABBIT squad members I’d only seen on paper.
Hmm, they’re even cuter in person!

"Welcome, RABBIT squad. I’m the Defense Director, Shiranui Kaya."

"We have a lot to discuss, so please make yourselves comfortable on the sofa."

"…………"

"Oh dear."

Judging by their expressions, they’ve already formed some serious misunderstandings.
I really need to fix this speech pattern of mine somehow…

"No."

"...No to what?"

Ah—they’ve already gone into full defensive mode.
One of them even has tears welling up in her eyes.

"...Please, let me explain everything. Would you take a seat?"

Somehow, it took 30 minutes just to get the RABBIT squad to sit down.
2 hours to clear up their misunderstandings.
And 5 minutes to realize Kurumi had been messing with them.

Heh heh heh… I’ll have to scold Kurumi properly later…

"I-I’m sorry, Defense Director. We wasted your time with our baseless assumptions…"

"Oh, no need. After a funny misunderstanding like this, people usually end up treating me more casually."

"So honestly, I’ve half given up on fixing it. Besides, this was Kurumi’s fault anyway."

Miyako kept apologizing, looking utterly remorseful.
There’s really no need—she’s such a sincere person.

"Now, I was going to explain everything today, but since it’s late, I’ll keep it brief."

"There are two tasks we need you to handle."

I hand out prepared documents to each member of the RABBIT squad and continue.

"First, dealing with the subversive elements identified by the Defense Office."

"They’ve been committing crimes ever since the General Student Council President disappeared, but due to more urgent matters, their arrests were postponed."

Finally, we can round them up. What a relief.

"Um…"

"Go ahead, Moe."

"Can we… go all out?"

Hmm. According to Moe’s additional info, she "likes to cross the line."

Heh. I’ll play along.

I stay silent for a moment.
Then, just as the silence starts to drag, I lower my voice slightly.

"...Absolutely not. Do not cross the line, Moe."

"Kuhihit… Kuhihihit…!"

"M-Moe?! Snap out of it!"

That should put Moe in a good mood for using explosives, right?
Well, I’ll handle the cleanup afterward.

"Now, the second task is…"

Everything up until now was just preparation—like setting the stage before Sensei arrives.
But now, it begins. We’ve finally reached the starting point for a different ending.
I absolutely cannot let this opportunity slip away.

"...Security support for Abydos High School."

Chapter Text

Abydos High School

Once the most powerful school in Kivotos, it gradually declined due to desertification until only five students remained.
And in the previous world, it became the unfortunate starting point of Kivotos's downfall.

...Truthfully, I already knew about Abydos High School in the previous world.
My senpai had mentioned it to me.

Yet, I paid no attention and abandoned them.
Had I at least accepted their request for help, would things have been different?
Could they have avoided such a tragic fate?

"...This time must be different. I don’t know what the General Student Council President saw in you, Sensei, to grant you such vast authority. But I must do what I can."

Currently, Abydos High School is "in danger of collapsing entirely due to attacks from the Helmet Gang."
And in response, Sensei departed for Abydos a few days ago.
It’s a little concerning that they set off with such meager supplies for such a vast desert district...
But they’ll be fine, right?

At any rate, the most I can do is help restore order in the Abydos district.
Anything beyond that exceeds my authority.

"Miyako."

"Yes, Director of Defense."

"The Abydos district still hasn’t regained stability. As Director of Defense, I cannot ignore this. I’m assigning a mission to RABBIT Platoon."

The details are as follows:

1. Eliminate the Katakata Helmet Gang, which has been repeatedly attacking Abydos High School.
2. Identify the client behind them.

"Director, why do you suspect there’s a force manipulating the Helmet Gang?"

"Given the scale and persistence of their attacks, no ordinary gang could sustain this.
Over 100 members attacking the same target ten times in a row... There’s absolutely a client behind this with an ulterior motive."

It’s likely one of two scenarios:
Either they have abundant funds but lack actual power, or they find it too politically risky to attack Abydos openly.

"RABBIT Platoon’s primary objective is to determine which of these applies to the client."

"That’s the reason we’ve come to the Abydos High School district."

"Understood. But..."

"Wait, Ayane! What are you saying now, of all times?!"

The first place RABBIT Platoon visited under the Director's orders was the building housing the Abydos Forclosure Task Force.
After meeting with the committee, Miyako explained their purpose for coming here...
But Serika reacted with defiance.

"What do you mean, ‘what am I saying’?"

"Come on! You barge in here suddenly, spouting nonsense! And the General Student Council? Aren’t they the ones who ignored our pleas for help all this time?
I refuse to accept any ‘help’ from them!"

"...Hey. If you’d listen, you’re being way too harsh. We’re genuinely here under the Director's orders to help maintain security."

Saki frowns at Serika’s words. Naturally—being met with hostility when they came to help is frustrating.

As tension rises between them, a weary voice chimes in from the Abydos side.

"Whew~ Sorry about that. Our Serika-chan can be a bit prickly."

"...No, our response wasn’t ideal either. More importantly, where is Sensei? I heard they left a few days ago..."

"They’re back. By the way, I heard helicopter noises heading toward our school.
Everyone’s okay, right?"

Just as Miyako asks about Sensei’s whereabouts, Shiroko enters the committee room carrying Sensei on her back.
A brief silence falls.

"...Wait. Why are you carrying Sensei?"

["Don’t get the wrong idea, everyone."]

Chapter Text

"I see. After joining up with Sensei, you encountered and defeated the Helmet Gang.
And then, under Sensei’s direction, you raided the Katakata Helmet Gang’s outpost."

Haha… Sensei, I had hoped my worries wouldn’t come true…
But it seems you really did get lost in that vast Abydos desert after all.

<Yes. If there were any issues with our response…>

"No, no, not at all. Everything was handled perfectly."

If they had tried to defer judgment to me on the spot, it might have stirred resentment from Foreclosure Task Force members.
From what I can tell, they seem to hold quite a bit of hostility toward the General Student Council. It wouldn’t have been good for them to see you blindly following our orders.

"On-site decisions should be made by those on the ground. In this situation, Miyako, your judgment was the best possible.

In that regard, your call was truly commendable. Even Yukino would praise you for it."

<Th-Thank you!>

Hearing Miyako’s delighted voice instantly lifts my mood.

"Anyway, were you able to recover any weapons or documents from the Katakata Helmet Gang?"

<Yes. However, since it was just an outpost, we didn’t find any paperwork or records.>

"So you did retrieve weapons. What’s your take on them, Miyako?"

At my question, Miyako falls silent for a moment.
She must be organizing her thoughts. I don’t mind waiting.

<...From what my team and I observed, the weapons the Katakata Helmet Gang were using don’t seem like anything they could’ve obtained on their own. We’d need more samples to be sure, but all of them were illegal—heavily modified beyond standard regulations.>

Indeed, given the Helmet Gang’s technical and financial limitations, modifying weapons on that scale illegally would be impossible.
This suggests their client provided substantial support.

<What will you do now, Director of Defense?>

"I think I’ll have to go there myself. To earn Foreclosure Task Force's cooperation, we should show sincerity in person."

<...You’re really coming?>

Miyako’s voice tightens with reluctance.
Ah… I get it. It is awkward—meeting face-to-face with people who resent me.
But I believe it’s necessary. Besides, Sensei will help mediate…

"More importantly, they’re among those who suffered the most from the administrative paralysis. I see this as a chance to apologize on behalf of the General Student Council."]]

After Miyako’s report, I prepare to head to the rooftop of the General Student Council building.
Moe is remotely piloting a helicopter for me, so I should be there before it arrives.
As I reach for the doorknob to leave the Defense Office—

Creak.

The knob turns before my hand even touches it.

"Oh? Director of Culture?"

"...Where do you think you’re going? After dumping all that work on me."

The Chief of Culture shoves a USB drive into my hands.

"Here. The files you asked for—about Abydos’s Sand Festival."

"Thank you. That was faster than I expected."

"Hey. Should the person being asked really have to hear that?"

Officially, any district in Kivotos hosting a festival needs approval from the Cultural Affairs Office.
Abydos had submitted their paperwork for the Sand Festival the year before last.

"Well, the former Director approved it back then… But when they suddenly canceled, I thought they were just messing around."

"...They must have had their reasons."

"Probably. Not my business, though."

Just as I’m about to leave with the USB, the Director of Culture stops me with one last remark.

"Hey. Director of Defense. You are taking proper breaks, right?"

"......"

"Let’s be real—you worked harder than anyone until we reclaimed the Sanctum Tower’s control. Now that the fires are out, take it easy. Otherwise, we won’t be able to relax either."

With a wry grin, the Director of Culture pats my shoulder—tap, tap—then walks away.
...I know. I know I should rest.

"But I can’t."

If I stop, who will lead the Defense Office?
If the Defense Office stops, who will maintain order across all of Kivotos?!

"I—I can’t afford to stop. Not while Kivotos’s safety and peace are at stake."

For the sake of this bright, vibrant world.

Chapter Text

During the flight to Abydos by helicopter, I connect the USB to my tablet.
Unsurprisingly, it contains details about the Sand Festival’s planned event.

It covers everything—what the Abydos Sand Festival is, its purpose, and meticulous planning.
The festival was set to run for over 20 days, inviting 25 academies.
Had it taken place, it would’ve been a massive event.

"But this isn’t the part I should focus on."

The proposal lists the drafters—the names of Abydos’s former student council.
The vice president at the time was Takanashi Hoshino.
And now, the chairwoman of Abydos’s Foreclosure Task Force is also Takanashi Hoshino.

This confirms it. No matter how much I dug through the Defense Office’s documents, I could barely find anything about Abydos.
I was struggling because there was no clear proof of Hoshino’s past affiliation, but thankfully, this settles it.

"In other words… Hoshino is the only one in Abydos with an ‘official’ affiliation right now."

I’m certain Kaiser is behind the Katakata Helmet Gang.
After all, in the last world, they shut Abydos down, and Kaiser built another school in its place.
They’re probably doing the same thing now.

Pressuring them with debt, using the Helmet Gang to apply physical force,
and continuously trying to lure Hoshino away.
Once they force her out, they’ll swallow up Abydos—now left with no official standing.

...The worst-case scenario I can imagine based on the last world goes like this:
The Foreclosure Task Force realizes Kaiser, their creditor, is also the one funding their attackers.
Kaiser finds excuses to inflate their debt once the truth comes out.
Hoshino, as the senpai, takes responsibility and accepts Kaiser’s demands, but without an official student council, Kaiser claims rights over Abydos.
In the end, Abydos is shut down. The FTF resists to the last… and gets killed.

Ugh. Just thinking about it makes my blood boil.

These so-called adults trample over students just to get what they want.

"Kaiser, you useless pieces of—"

...But raging won’t solve anything. I need a plan.

All I can do is stop Kaiser from crossing the line set by the General Student Council’s regulations.
For example, condemning any direct or indirect coercion to force their agenda.

"If only we had definitive proof the Helmet Gang is Kaiser’s pawns…We could hammer them down and restrict their actions."

But if Kaiser keeps acting from the shadows, I can’t move.
Without justification, the GSC could face backlash for favoring one school too much.

"I’ll need the FTF's cooperation…"

Just as I’m deep in thought about countering Kaiser—
Ding! A MomoTalk notification pops up.

"...Aoi? Did she find something about what I asked?"

The message is brief:

[ The interest rate on Kaiser Loan’s debt to Abydos High School does not violate GSC regulations. ]

"Ugh… Treasurer, you stickler—"

Sure, the 10% interest is within the 15% legal limit, so it’s not illegal!
Even if 1–5% is the norm, the parties agreed, so the GSC can’t interfere!
But they could at least issue a warning!

As I shudder at Aoi’s razor-sharp administrative judgment—
Another message arrives:

[Aoi: Defense Director. I don’t know what you’re scheming, asking other directors about Abydos, but the other schools won’t take it well if a GSC exec plays favorites....And take a break. You’ve already done enough, Senpai. No one will blame you for resting a little.]

"...Classic Aoi."

Chapter Text

One by one, another one.
A tiny voice disappears into the flames.

Once that voice is gone, it will never return.
By the time the voice turns into a scream, and even that scream is swallowed by silence—
I open my eyes inside the helicopter.

"...Phew. I almost let my focus slip after reading Aoi-san's Momotalk."

What I just saw was a world I experienced.
A world that was chaotic, yet one I came to find joy in.
A world that the Valkyrie Police Academy officers—who never listened to me no matter what—risked their lives to protect.
But all of it... was a world that crumbled away, meaningless.

I never try to sleep deeply.
Because if I do, I won’t be able to see this dream.

The reason I must see this dream is to steel my resolve.
No matter how exhausted and worn out I am from the endless work, remembering this tragedy gives me the strength to keep going.

"I’ll make sure this never happens again. I’ll do everything I can."

...Alright! Let’s get to it!
For the sake of this Kivotos I love!

Chapter Text

I Became Pink-Haired Shiranui – 21

"Welcome, Director of Defense."

Miyako greets me with a salute as I step off the helicopter.

The other Rabbit Squad members also offer crisp salutes.

"It's been a while, Rabbit Squad. How has life in the desert been treating you?"

Even though SRT Special Academy trains for all kinds of environments, real-world conditions are different. The squad members give varied responses to my question.

"Nothing too uncomfortable, but..."                    

"Sand gets everywhere when maintaining equipment."

"Managing supplies is tricky because of the sand."

"Sometimes sandstorms block my sniper scope..."

I see.
...Though I’m not sure how much I can help with that.

Oops.

"Ahem. I sincerely appreciate you all coming out to greet me so late at night. Let’s call it a day and rest for now. Where’s the camp?"

"Right. I’ll guide you. This way."

Following Miyako and the others, we arrive at an unused classroom.
Huh? I thought Abydos wasn’t exactly welcoming us?

As I tilt my head in confusion, Miyako explains.           

"Well... Hoshino said it’s compensation for helping them."

"Ah, I see."

The next morning after staying at the camp, I head to the clubroom to meet the FTF and Sensei...

"They’re all gone?"

"Yes. We stopped by earlier before you woke up, but the committee members weren’t there. Instead, we found this note."

I unfold the note Miyako hands me. It reads:

"Rabbit Squad, today is a voluntary attendance day, so we all went out to eat together."

"If you need to contact us, please message us on MomoTalk below. – Okusora Ayane"

"Seriously? The Director of Defense comes all this way, and they just go out to eat?"

"Saki, please don’t say it like that. I did ask them to keep my visit a secret, remember?"

"Well, yeah, but..."

"Hehe. I appreciate you getting upset on my behalf, but don’t worry too much."

Saki grumbles but eventually agrees.
Well, with this, my schedule is wide open. I can’t just sit around.

"Everyone, how about we take a tour around Abydos? Since we have no plans today, I’d like to take a leisurely walk and see the area."

"A walk? There’s nothing worth seeing around here."

"And Abydos isn’t exactly safe right now. If anything were to happen..."

Moe and Miyako seem reluctant.
I guess "taking a walk" wasn’t the best way to phrase it.

"Then how about an inspection? I’ve only seen Abydos on paper—never in person."

"...That’s true, but for safety reasons, we’d still prefer to oppose it."

Ugh. Miyako is stubborn.
Getting Yukino vibes here...!

"Why not just use my drone, Director?"

"...Fine. Let’s do that."

Seeing things in person would be more meaningful, but with Miyako so insistent, there’s no point pushing it.
As I nod, Moe takes out her drone and starts setting up the controller.

By the time the sun set and the moon rose, our drone survey of Abydos left us shocked.

"...It’s worse than I thought. Most of the area is buried in sand. I had no idea the desertification was this severe."

Four-lane roads were nearly swallowed by dunes.
Most first-floor buildings were filled with sand, making entry nearly impossible.
Even basic infrastructure seemed questionable at this point.

"And with only five students left—the core of any district’s vitality...Has Abydos really fallen this far?"

"Wow... I’ve never seen it this up close. This is beyond ‘severe’..."

"Why would anyone stay when it’s gotten this bad?"

Before I could answer Saki’s question, Miyako cuts in.

"...No. I understand. They love Abydos. That’s why they won’t abandon it. I’d do the same. If SRT Special Academy were ever at risk of closing, I’d stay to the end to protect it too."

The Rabbit Squad members immediately grasp her meaning.
The FTF aren’t foolish—they’re not paying off Abydos High School’s debts out of stupidity.
They simply refuse to back down because they want to protect this place.

<Um... Director of Defense...?>

Ah! You startled me—who’s there?
Oh, Miyu. I forgot you were here.

"Ahem. What is it, Miyu?"

<I was checking the surroundings... Abydos residents are coming this way...>

"Huh? They’re coming to the school at this hour?"

Did something big happen?

Chapter Text

The news brought by the Abydos students was quite shocking.
It seemed that Kuromi Serika, a member of FTF, had disappeared without a trace—no contact, no warning.
Because of this, everyone had gathered at Abydos High School in the middle of the night to search for her, which explained the late-night assembly.

After instructing RABBIT Squad to be ready for deployment at any moment, I approached FTF members.
Hoshino-san mentioned she would work separately with Sensei to track down Serika’s location, so I decided to greet them later.

"My apologies for the late introduction. I am Shiranui Kaya, currently serving as Director of the General Student Council’s Defense Office."

I bowed my head slightly as I delivered my greeting.

"Good evening, Defense Director. What brings you here?"

The response came from Ayane-san, her tone strictly professional.
Hmm. At least she didn’t outright tell me to leave. That’s a relief.

"As the acting Defense Director, I feel responsible for the significant deterioration of public order in the Abydos district. Initially, I intended to dispatch RABBIT Squad to eliminate those disrupting the peace in the area… However, we’ve uncovered evidence suggesting that someone hired the Helmet Gang to ambush you."

"What? Seriously?!"

I dropped one of the major points I could disclose.
No matter how much they might want to ignore it, they couldn’t possibly stay indifferent, right?

"In such cases, the client behind the attack should be dealt with more severely than the perpetrators themselves. But given the circumstances, RABBIT Squad alone may not be enough. That’s why I’ve come here personally—to request your cooperation."

"Ah, I see. But still…"

"Hold on, Ayane-chan."

At that moment, Nonomi-san interjected on Ayane-san’s behalf.

"So, Defense Director, you’re not here to help us, but rather to ask for our help—is that correct?"

"Exactly. You’ve understood perfectly."

Just as I expected.
The FTF still harbored resentment toward the General Student Council for ignoring their pleas for support all this time.
Though minor, if we abruptly offered assistance now, they might reject it out of sheer defiance—"Why now, after all this?"

That’s why now was the time to lower my head slightly and take the position of requesting their cooperation.
Logically, they had no reason to refuse. Emotionally, it’s harder to turn away someone who’s humbly asking.
There was no way Abydos would reject us now.

Using Sensei’s authority, I secretly accessed the central network and located Serika’s position—an abandoned ruin on the outskirts of the city.
Given that it was also the main hideout of the Katakata Helmet Gang, there was no doubt they were behind this.
Without delay, the FTF and RABBIT Squad prepared to raid the place.

"You’re a General Student Council executive, yet you’re not gonna lecture Sensei for breaking the rules like this~?"

"Hehe. I can hardly scold someone for bending the rules to save a student. Though I will have to ask for a written incident report afterward."

Hoshino-san grabbed me and quipped:

"Welp~ Guess I’ll have to play lawyer for Sensei when this is over, eh~?"

"...Yes. I’d be happy to hear you out."

Her tone was carefree, almost airheaded, but the pressure behind her words was anything but.

"The lawyer thing is just an excuse—I need to talk to you alone."

I couldn’t possibly refuse.
If I did, I had the distinct feeling I’d be torn apart like a sheet of paper…

"Welp~ Take good care of the place for me, ‘kay~?"

Having said her piece, Hoshino-san brushed past me.
…It felt like a massive boulder had just grazed my arm.
Are you sure she’s just a student like me?

Chapter Text

Luckily, thanks to the efforts of RABBIT Squad and the FTF, Serika was safely rescued.
As expected, the illegal weapons—far too advanced for the Helmet Gang’s usual capabilities—and even a strategic tank were involved.
This only confirms my earlier suspicion:

"There’s a client behind the Helmet Gang, orchestrating attacks against Abydos."

"Thanks, Defense Director~ Thanks to you, we got our girl back without much trouble."

"Not at all. This was the least I could do to earn your cooperation."

And then, a moment alone with Hoshino.

After studying me for a brief moment, Hoshino shakes her head.

"...So? What brings the big shot from the General Student Council all the way out here?"

"As I mentioned earlier, I’m here to uncover the forces behind this—those who not only dared to disrupt public order but also hired others to do so. To do that, I believe we’ll need the help of the Abydos Foreclosure Task Force. And for something this important, I thought it was only right that I, as the person ultimately responsible, come to ask in person."

The moment I finish explaining, Hoshino lets out a dry chuckle.

"Pfft~ What a flawless reason~ Not even a needle could find a gap in that logic with how tight it is."

...Her hostility is still strong. Even more so than the others.
How can I ease this resentment and earn her trust?

"No other reason? That one’s kinda… cold, don’tcha think~?"

Hmm… Another reason? Ah. There is one.

"The Abydos Sand Festival."

Hoshino flinches slightly at those words. But I don’t dwell on it, instead sharing a fragment of memory.

"I had a senpai once. Someone who guided me when I was lost, who sheltered me when I needed it. That senpai… once spoke of the Sand Festival with such joy in their voice. I wanted to see it for myself—with my own eyes."

This is the absolute truth.
I clasp my hands together, holding onto the memory gently—but firmly, not wanting to let go.

"And someday… I’d like to enjoy the Sand Festival with that senpai."

"...That senpai of yours. They doing alright?"

"Of course! I heard they’ve even opened a little shop somewhere..."

I share bits of what my senpai told me with Hoshino.
I wonder if I should stop, but the look on her face—"Go on~"—keeps me talking.
With each word, the tension that once felt like walking on a razor’s edge slowly softens.

"Wow~ That’s nice~ But y’know, it’s tough for us. We don’t have the means to hold a big festival like we used to. The day you get to enjoy it with your senpai… probably won’t come while you’re still a student, huh?"

"That’s alright. No matter how long it takes, as long as I can enjoy the Sand Festival with my senpai someday, that’s enough."

"Sorry ‘bout that~ Guess I let my guard up ‘cause I figured you were just another shady adult."

"Heh. I’m just glad the misunderstanding’s cleared up."

Takanashi Hoshino stares at the student before her.
Pink hair like her own, a stray cowlick.
Someone who speaks of their senpai with fondness, who talks about the present with joy.

Hoshino can’t help but superimpose herself and Yume-senpai onto that image.
But it’s different.
She couldn’t leave her senpai with happy memories. Only scars.
She can’t talk about the present with her senpai. She can only remember the past.
She trampled over her senpai’s feelings when they spoke of the Sand Festival.
Every time she steps into that room, the weight of it crushes her all over again.

"......"

Takanashi Hoshino looks at Shiranui Kaya.
She sees what could have been—the best version of herself, an ideal she could never reach.

"U-Um, is there something on my face? You’re staring pretty hard..."

"Nah~ Just thinkin’ how the Defense Director here looks real shady with those squinty eyes~"

Takanashi Hoshino decides to watch over her.
She wonders if this girl can reach the future she never could.

"Ugh… People always say that when they look at me..."

"Can’t be helped~"

Chapter Text

It seems things with Hoshino have been resolved smoothly.

Thank goodness. If the discussion hadn’t gone well, we would’ve had to leave Abydos without achieving anything further.

That’s how badly we wanted to avoid the possibility of things escalating into a fight with Hoshino.

"Well then, shall we move on to the next step?"

Having cleared that major hurdle in Abydos, I returned to the General Student Council’s main office.
There were matters here that only I could handle.

"Ms. Oochi!"

"...I’ve been waiting for you, Director."

The moment I entered the office, I called for my secretary, Ms. Oochi.
She had been sorting through the backlog of paperwork piling up in my absence.

"I’ve organized all the documents based on urgency and importance. All that’s left is for you to review and handle them, Director."

"Thank you, Ms. Oochi."

For the next three days, I couldn’t return to Abydos.

Not only did I have to clear the pending work, but I also needed to prepare materials for the upcoming General Student Council meeting.

But now, even that was finally done.
Today, I boarded a helicopter remotely piloted by Moe to head back to Abydos.

"Well then, Ms. Oochi. I’ll be back before the day of the council meeting, so don’t worry."

"Sigh... Which means I’ll be the one dealing with visitors while you’re away, as usual..."

"...I’m always grateful for your hard work."

I boarded the helicopter, glancing at Ms. Oochi’s expression.
Maybe I should buy her a gift one of these days...

As the helicopter took off toward Abydos, I recalled the report Miyako had given me during our regular briefing.
This time, instead of the Helmet Gang, Kaiser had mobilized a group called "Problem Solver 68" to attack Abydos—but they were all repelled.

"That’s a relief... But the real question is, what method will they use to attack Abydos next?"

Speaking of which, why would delinquents from Gehenna come all the way to Abydos?

It’s unsettling... Having Gehenna’s troublemakers in Abydos is a huge risk.
What if Gehenna uses this as an excuse to pick a fight with Abydos?

...Come to think of it, I feel like I’ve forgotten something.
Did I overlook anything important?

My stomach growled.
Ah. I skipped breakfast.
Oops.

By the time my helicopter arrived in Abydos, the FTF had just finished their meeting.

"So, the strategic weapons the Helmet Gang had were confirmed to be sourced from the Black Market?"

"Yes, Defense Director. We were just about to head there to investigate."

I see... So they funneled weapons to the Helmet Gang through the Black Market.
Typical Kaiser and their underhanded tactics—minimizing direct traces of contact with the Helmet Gang.
Either way, the FTF was already preparing to leave for the Black Market.

"Hmm... I’m sorry, but I can’t accompany you on this one..."

"We get it. If word got out that a high-ranking Student Council official went to a place like that, it’d cause a huge scandal."

"Yeah. Too bad, though."

I’d love to go with them and help, but...
If Aoi found out I went to the Black Market, I shudder to think of the scolding I’d get.

"What about RABBIT Squad...?"

"Yes. We’re also responsible for escorting the Defense Director, so...We can’t just leave our post."

"Kuhihit. I really wanna go, but I’ll have to hold back this time."

With the FTF gone, only RABBIT Squad and I remained.
It’d be fine to stay put, but...

"Everyone, is there a restaurant around here by any chance?"

"A restaurant? We don’t know the area well, but if the FTF recommended one..."

"Then let’s go there!"

First things first—I need to fill my empty stomach.
Nothing works right on an empty stomach, after all.

Chapter Text

After being seen off by Ayane, who stayed behind at school, we followed the RABBIT Squad to our destination—a ramen shop.
The name of the place? "Shibaseki Ramen." Somehow, the name feels oddly trustworthy.
We enter the shop and order five bowls of Shibaseki Ramen—one for each of us.

"...Is this really a single serving? Did we get the wrong order?"

"First-time customers get a little extra. Hope you’ll come back often."

The owner says this while handing us bowls that are absolutely not standard-sized.
...Yeah, I’ll definitely be stopping by here a lot while I’m in Abydos.

"Alright, everyone. Dig in! It’s best eaten before it cools down, right?"

"Heh. The famous Shibaseki Ramen of Abydos. Let’s see how good it really is!"

Before I even finish speaking, the RABBIT Squad members grab their chopsticks.
I’ll take a bite too. Here goes...

"...It’s delicious. Seriously amazing."

"Whoa. It’s actually incredible. They’ve been keeping this to themselves?!"

"Now I get why the Abydos students keep coming back. It’s such a comforting flavor."

Miyako’s words make everyone nod in agreement.
With a place this good so close by, it’s impossible not to become a regular.

...Speaking of which, what’s the FTF up to right now?
They’re probably not investigating the Black Market the "proper" way—it is the Black Market, after all. Maybe they’ve got another plan.
Well, as long as they don’t go too overboard...

"We’re robbing the bank."

Shiroko says this casually as she pulls on a ski mask.
The suspicion that their money might be funding the Black Market’s criminal operations has led her to choose the most extreme solution.

"Huh?! We’re doing this right in front of the Defense Director?!"

"Well... but..."

Serika tries to rein Shiroko in, but what does the Defense Director even do? Isn’t her job to uphold Kivotos’s peace?
Even if she’s on their side, outright robbing a bank in broad daylight is...

<Uh... The Defense Director said she was hungry and went to Shibaseki Ramen.>

Ayane’s words snap the last thread of restraint—not just for Shiroko, but for everyone.

"Yep. We’re robbing it."

"WHAAAT?!"

"Wow~ The Director picked the perfect time to dip~! Alright, count me in too!"

"HUH?! You’re joining?!"

Even Hoshino, who’d been hesitating, immediately transforms into a masked high school delinquent.

"Wooah~☆ Time to teach this shady bank a lesson!"

"Wait, hold on?! What’s happening?!"

"Sigh... Guess we’ve got no choice now!"

"Uh... Wha...? Whaaa...?!"

Hifumi nearly short-circuits from the absurdity.

<...I had a feeling it’d come to this. No one here’s gonna listen if I try to stop them... It’ll work out somehow...>

Ayane knew this would happen the moment she revealed the Director's whereabouts.
That’s right—deep down, she was on board with robbing the bank too!

"Sorry, Hifumi. We didn’t prepare a mask for you. Debated making an SRT-themed one—should’ve gone for it."

"Welp~ No choice now! If we get caught, we’ll just blame everything on Trinity, right?"

"Huh?! N-no, wait... Why a mask...? I mean... Uh... Agh...!"

"Hold up! That’s too cruel. Here, Hifumi-chan, you can borrow this one for now!☆"

...And so, a kind-hearted Trinity student is instantly transformed into a ruthless bank robber.
Now that she’s far from "ordinary," all’s well that ends well~

"W-wait, I’m going too?! To rob a dark bank...? R-really?!"

"Eheh~ You promised, remember? Hifumi-chan’s sticking with us today!"

"A-ahhh... How am I supposed to face the Student Council after this...?"

Hifumi is utterly lost. She just came to buy MomoFriends merch—how did it come to this?
But undeterred, Shiroko confidently turns to Sensei and declares:

"Alright, Sensei. Say the line."

And with that, Sensei shouts enthusiastically—almost like they’re enjoying this a little too much.

["Let’s rob the bank!"]

Chapter Text

Abydos High School, after filling their stomachs at Shibaseki Ramen.
There, the RABBIT Squad and I heard a shocking story from Ayane.

"...Did I hear that correctly, Ayane-san?"

"Aha, ahaha..."

"Uh, a bank? Not the kind with trees that bear stinky fruit—the kind where you deposit or borrow money. That kind of bank?"

"...Defense Director. As much as I know the FTF is struggling financially, I find this matter hard to overlook."

Miyako’s voice grew slightly colder.

Hmm... Even if there’s the slightest chance this was for money, I can’t exactly shield them...

"A-Ayane-san? I trust the FTF wouldn’t raid a bank just for money... Could you explain why they targeted a Black Market bank...?"

"Y-Yes! First, let me explain how our school is drowning in debt to Kaiser...While in the Black Market, the FTF happened to spot a Kaiser loan vehicle paying off interest. But since they couldn’t track its movements, they lacked solid evidence. So, to obtain the transaction records, they raided the bank......Well. It’s the Black Market’s problem anyway, right? They block our interference, so they can handle their own security, no? Not my business~."

"I see. So Kaiser’s been up to this..."

"I don’t know the exact contents of those documents yet, but circumstantially..."

"Yes. It’s practically certain. Kaiser hired the Helmet Gang to attack Abydos."

...At this point, we don’t need clearer evidence.
Even if we have to adjust how we obtained it, the important thing is that I now know. Now we have leverage to pressure Kaiser!

Just then—
My phone rings. A call from Oochi. I glance at Ayane for permission, and she nods.

"Yes, Oochi-san. What’s the matter?"

<Director, you need to return to the General Student Council immediately!>

The urgency in Oochi’s voice tells me I can’t delay. But why? I thought I’d finished all pending work...

<...Both Gehenna and Trinity have filed complaints. They claim the SRT has been stationed near their schools for too long...They’re accusing the General Student Council of trying to establish a forward base for the SRT.>

"Hah?!"

<If that’s not the case, they demand the SRT withdraw from the area at once.>

This is absurd!
Well, I suppose from their perspective, it makes sense—but still! Damn it, Trinity! Gehenna!

"...Understood. I’ll return immediately."

But there’s no choice.
As Student Council President, I don’t have complete freedom in deploying the SRT. When major schools send formal protests like this, I can’t just ignore them.

"...RABBIT Squad, we’re pulling out."

......We were so close.
Just a little more time...

"Huh?"

Miyako and the others stare in confusion.

"Hold on! What’s this about withdrawing, Director?"

"Sounds like trouble... That bad?"

To Saki and Moe, all I can say is yes.
One school’s protest might be manageable, but both Trinity and Gehenna? Impossible to disregard.

"W-Wait! Why?!"

"...Trinity and Gehenna have filed complaints. Our presence here must’ve bothered them."

"Ah..."

Ayane’s sharp—she’ll understand.
Abydos sits between Trinity and Gehenna. Military operations here? Of course they’d be uneasy.

"...My apologies. It seems this is as far as I can go.
Please pass along my thanks to the Abydos Foreclosure Task Force, Ayane-san."

"T-That’s..."

"...I’m sorry I couldn’t stay until the end."

"...And just like that, the Defense Director and RABBIT Squad boarded their helicopter and left."

"Hah?! This is our school! Why are Trinity and Gehenna complaining?!"

"...Serika-chan. Calm down."

Back at school, the FTF and Hifumi listened as Ayane explained what happened.

"Wh-Why? Why would the Tea Party...?"

"They felt threatened. The General Student Council conducting military ops right under their noses?"

Hoshino, who understood Abydos’s plight best, grasped it instantly.
The General Student Council moving troops into Abydos—a nearly powerless district—could easily be seen as a threat to Trinity and Gehenna.

"...Even so, she still wanted to help us. The Director, I mean."

Hoshino finally got it.
The Director had genuinely tried to aid them.
Maybe her motives weren’t as pure as Sensei’s, but her actions were sincere.

"Uuu... I-I’ll go back and talk to the Tea Party! I’ll tell them about Kaiser’s crimes, Abydos’s situation, and—"

"Won’t help, Hifumi-chan."

"Eh?!"

"You really think their leadership doesn’t already know? Their intel teams aren’t slacking off."

"B-But... If they know, then why...?"

"Tch. Politics~."

As she muttered, Hoshino caught herself worrying:
Hope the Director doesn’t get in trouble for this...

Chapter Text

Student Council Ordinance, Article 5, Clause 1

"The General Student Council shall strive to maintain peace among the autonomous districts and renounce acts of aggressive war."

A Return to the General Student Council, Prompted by Protests from Two Major Schools

...This might not necessarily be a bad thing.

At least it’ll give RABBIT Platoon a chance to rest for a while—and I was starting to pile up work anyway.
I’ll worry about the future later. For now, let’s just get through all these tasks.

Hours pass as I sit at my desk, chipping away at the backlog.
By the time I glance out the window, the sun has nearly set, and moonlight gradually brightens the sky.

…Hah. Finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.

All that’s left is to keep going with a caffeine boost.
Now, where did I leave that instant coffee…?

"Huh. It’s gone."

Tch.
Oh well. Can’t exactly conjure up something that isn’t there. Guess I’ll have to settle for water for now.

As I stand to fetch a glass, Oochi pulls out her phone, as if she’d been waiting for this moment.
Yeah, yeah. I get it—you can’t rest unless I do, right?

"Oh, Defense Director? Kronos just dropped an article, but—"

"Probably tabloid nonsense. I don’t have time for their wild exaggerations."

"No, this one says Gehenna’s Prefect Team launched a large-scale military operation into Abydos a few hours ago."

"……Hah?"

Did I hear that right?
Gehenna—the same school that just sent me a protest letter yesterday—deployed forces into Abydos?

"Wait, hold on. Is that article even reliable? You know how Kronos loves to—"

"No, Director. As much as Kronos loves twisting facts, the core of their reports is usually true. This time, it’s safe to assume Gehenna actually mobilized their forces."

Before Oochi even finishes, I’m already sending a MomoTalk message to Ayane, using the contact info she gave me:

"Did Gehenna’s Prefect Team invade Abydos today?"

Ayane: "How did you know?"

Ayane: "Yes, it’s true. Gehenna’s Prefect Team did enter Abydos, but…"

Ayane: "We’ve already received an apology from their Prefect Team leader! So don’t worry too much!"

"…So it wasn’t the Prefect Team leader’s call. Then was it the Senior Administrator?"

…Now that I think about it, this just makes me angrier. Wasn’t the Senior Administrator the one who drafted that protest letter in the first place?
Wait—did they just kick us out of Abydos so they could swoop in and take advantage of the situation themselves?

"Heh… Hehehe… So they pushed me out with a protest letter…while openly deploying their own Prefect Team en masse?"

"…What should we do about the protest letter now?"

Oochi waves the letter flippantly in the air.
Just moments ago, it was an important document—

"Shred it. It’s worthless now, less than scrap paper."

"Gehenna just obliterated their own argument anyway, so Trinity won’t have much to say either. But…"

Why would the Senior Administrator do this? They wouldn’t actually try to occupy Abydos. There must be another reason…
Were they trying to capture Schale's Sensei? But why make such a drastic move?

…Unless it was to destabilize the Eden Treaty.
With the General Student Council President gone, I heard the treaty had already collapsed.

"Well, we’ll figure it out once we hear from the FTF. We can head back to Abydos tomorrow."

"Ah, so I’m the one dying on the front lines again…"

Oochi grumbles as she feeds the protest letter into the shredder.
Hang in there, Oochi.
I’ve been a secretary before—I know how exhausting it is.

"I’ll repay you with a promotion to Defense Director someday. Just wait."

"…Are you trying to work me to death? I doubt I could handle even half of your workload, Director."

I let Oochi’s exasperated remark go in one ear and out the other as I refocus on my tasks.
I need to finish everything today so I can return to Abydos.
Sorry, RABBIT Platoon—looks like your vacation’s getting cut short.

Chapter Text

Student Council Ordinance Article 119, Paragraph 1

"The economic order of Kivotos shall fundamentally respect the economic freedom and creativity of individuals and corporations."

After finishing a full day’s work, my plan was to head straight to Abydos the next morning. Of course, this plan assumed that the RABBIT Platoon would be coming along.

"...Isn’t this pushing them too hard?"

"Now you say that? You worked the FOX Platoon even harder."

As I briefly reflected on my actions, Oochi chimed in with a pointed remark.
...She wasn’t wrong, but back then, if I hadn’t acted that way, public order would’ve collapsed completely. There was no other choice.

"The RABBIT Platoon must be exhausted after staying in Abydos for days. I sent them back to rest, but now we’re dragging them out again for an unplanned emergency dispatch just two days later... Won’t they resent it?"

"I doubt they’ll mind too much."

"...Alright. Then I’ll trust your judgment and contact them."

With trembling hands, I sent the message. Thankfully, the RABBIT Platoon agreed without complaint.
However, coordinating their return took time. Instead of leaving at dawn as originally planned, we finally departed around 3 PM.

"Didn’t expect to be back so soon~"

"Seriously. Has the Defense Director gotten addicted to working us to the bone?"

"...Ahem. My apologies. But once Gehenna’s military movements were confirmed, there was no reason to delay."

Moe and Saki took turns jabbing at my conscience.
Stop... stop! My conscience’s HP is already at 1...!!

"Speaking of Gehenna, wasn’t it their protest that forced us to withdraw in the first place?"

"An... internal conflict, perhaps...?"

"...Unlikely. The current Gehenna Student Council President isn’t the type to send troops over something like this.
It’s more plausible that the Prefect Team protested and then mobilized their own forces to invade Abydos."

That much made sense. From the Prefect Team's perspective, having the Student Council’s direct forces stationed nearby must’ve been irritating.
But why attack Abydos the moment we withdrew?

No matter how I looked at it, there was no advantage for them.
If anything, it only gave us justification to act. The Senior Administrator wouldn’t overlook that.
...There’s something I’m missing.

Upon arriving in Abydos, the FTF welcomed us.
But something felt off—they lacked their usual energy.
Just as I was about to ask, Sensei called me over.

"Hm? Sensei, what is it?"

Tilting my head in confusion, I watched as Sensei briefly glanced at Hoshino.
Hoshino gave a small nod, as if confirming something.

["I’ll explain, Kaya."]

I immediately sensed that whatever Sensei was about to say was critical.
The RABBIT Platoon left with Hoshino to the classroom they’d stayed in before, leaving just me and Sensei.

"......"

Oh dear. Now that I’m conscious of it, this feels a little embarrassing. Alone in a secluded place with an adult man...?
...Get a grip. I must’ve been pushing myself too hard lately.

At any rate, Sensei began speaking.
I listened intently, hanging onto every word, but...

The situation was worse than I thought.
Most of Abydos’s autonomous district had already fallen into Kaiser Corporation’s hands.
And now, they were making impossible demands on the FTF for their desert worksite...

"...This is bad."

It’s too late. There’s no turning back. They’re barely keeping up with interest payments as it is, and now the interest is increasing? Three billion by next week?
Even if I punished Kaiser by declaring, "They funded the Helmet Gang to torment Abydos!", their demands wouldn’t change.

This is an ultimatum. Kaiser’s final warning to the FTF...
A cruel decree: "We’ll give you a week, then get lost."

"...Thank you for telling me, Sensei."

Staggering from the shock, I stepped away.
As I opened the door, Shiroko passed by me, pulling Hoshino into the classroom as if swapping places.
...I don’t know what they’ll discuss, but I hope it’s meaningful.
There’s nothing more I can do.

"Ah. Really."

Was it all pointless?
Everything I’ve done—was it all just futile struggling?
Was "Abydos’ closure" an unstoppable tide from the start?

"......"

Realizing how far my thoughts had spiraled, I closed my eyes and steadied myself.
Had I already given up, dismissing the path to ruin as "inevitable"?

I can’t give up yet.
I still haven’t apologized to the General Student Council President.

So—I’ll keep fighting.
For you. For the General Student Council President.
Until the day I can apologize on behalf of everyone.

Chapter Text

Student Council Ordinance Article 37, Clause 1
"The freedoms and rights of students shall not be disregarded for reasons not enumerated in this ordinance."

Student Council Ordinance Article 10, Clause 1
"Every student possesses dignity and worth as a human being and has the right to pursue happiness."

The next morning.

Hoshino-san had disappeared, leaving behind her club withdrawal notice, school withdrawal form, and letters for the FTF members and Sensei.

"What the hell?! After all that big talk, she just bails when things get tough?! And now the seniors are making excuses for her?! How can we let this slide?!"

"Where did Hoshino-senpai go? We have to go after her, now!"

I only listened up to this point, but it was enough to confirm things were unfolding as I expected.
Heh. Kaiser Corporation’s dogs. They’ll be swarming in soon.
They’ll start shouting about how the last remaining student council in Abydos has vanished, how there’s no official student body left in the school anymore…
I can already imagine their greedy, noisy arguments as they try to swallow Abydos whole.

…But even though I saw this coming, I couldn’t just sit around doing nothing, right?
I quietly slipped out of the clubroom and headed to the classroom where the RABBIT Platoon was stationed.
There, I found Miyako-san, Saki-san, Moe-san, and Miyu-san, already geared up and ready for deployment.

I briefly explained the situation and shared my predictions.
Though anger flashed in their eyes at Kaiser’s tyranny, they calmly waited for my next words.

"Words alone aren’t enough for justice. RABBIT Platoon—will you lend me your strength?"

The FTF was caught off guard when Kaiser’s forces suddenly stormed in with explosions, but they quickly moved to stop them.
Though disappointed that the Defense Director and RABBIT Platoon had vanished, they steadily pushed back Kaiser’s invading troops.
Finally, they stood face-to-face with Kaiser PMC’s director.

"Oh my, oh my. We were just about to visit the school, but you came all the way here to greet us?"

The director’s tone was as mocking as ever, provoking the FTF.
His attitude only fueled their fury.

"What is the meaning of this?! A corporation attacking a city—no matter how much you ‘own’ this place, you have no right to do this!"

<Besides, the school still belongs to us, Abydos! This is blatantly illegal! We’ll report this to the General Student Council!>

"...Where’s Hoshino-senpai? So the whole ‘scouting’ thing was a lie from the start."

"Give Hoshino-senpai back, you bastards!!"

"...Keh. Keh-keh-keh."

The director only laughed in response to their genuine anger.

"Report us to the General Student Council? How amusing. How many times have you pleaded with them before? And when did they ever lift a finger to help you?"

<......>

He was certain—no one would ever truly stand up for them.
He’d been surprised to hear the Defense Director had come here, but in the end, it was just a formality.
"The General Student Council couldn’t care less if Abydos lives or dies!"—that was his unshakable belief.

"It’s pointless! The General Student Council won’t lift a finger for Abydos!!"

<...What are you talking about?>

"Hm? Don’t tell me you didn’t know? The General Student Council deliberately abandoned Abydos!Ahahaha! Priceless! You really thought they’d help you, even after being cast aside?!"

The FTF refused to believe him.
After all, hadn’t the Defense Director herself come here just recently and—

But now, they realized: the Defense Director and the SRT students who’d been with them earlier were gone.
Could it be… that they’d abandoned them too? Just as that faint doubt began to take hold—

"General Student Council Ordinance, Article 1, Clause 2!All sovereignty within each district belongs to the students, and all authority derives from them!"

A familiar voice rang out from above.

"By the authority of this clause! Shiranui Kaya, Defense Director of the General Student Council, hereby declares that Abydos High School—as long as even one student remains—retains its sovereignty!"

Her voice boomed loud enough to drown out the helicopter’s rotors.

"And yet, Kaiser Corporation, you have flagrantly violated that sovereignty with your actions!
If you do not cease your military operations immediately, we will take decisive measures!"

Everyone turned their eyes to the helicopter.
There, clinging to the door and shouting at the top of her lungs, was the Defense Director—with Miyako holding onto her from behind to keep her from falling.

The first to speak was the Kaiser PMC director.

"Y-You’re acting NOW?! The General Student Council ignored Abydos for years, and suddenly you’re playing the hero?!"

The Defense Director snorted in response.

"It’s never too late to correct an injustice! Whether it’s been years or what my position is—none of that matters! I’m just one student standing against your tyranny!"

Chapter Text

Student Council General Regulations, Article 30, Clause 1
A student who suffers harm to their life or body due to the criminal acts of another has the right to receive aid from the autonomous district to which they belong.

"Why did you attack Abydos?! Why?!"

Hoshino screamed at Black Suit, as if pleading.
This wasn’t part of the deal, she accused.

"...No. The deal was honored, Hoshino. Your debt was cleared—exactly as promised.
But since you dropped out, sadly, Abydos High School no longer has an official student council... or so we claimed as justification to seize it."

Black Suit continued speaking, ignoring Hoshino, who was bound in chains and unable to move.

"Unexpected, really.
A member of the General Student Council stepping in to save Abydos High.
Exploiting a loophole in logic to drive out Kaiser PMC without a single battle.
I didn’t think the current Student Council still had such capable research material..."

After a brief pause, Black Suit shrugged dismissively.

"Well, since things have turned out this way, I suppose we’ll have to abandon our observations on the impact of a new corporate-owned academy."

Why could he brush this off so easily?
Because his true objective had already been achieved.
There was no reason to be upset over the failure of what was merely a side diversion.

"What...? You talk as if you weren’t even part of Kaiser..."

"Ah, my apologies. I forgot to mention—Kaiser and I were merely temporary allies, united by shared interests.
Our agreement only extended to having you sign the contract and transferring all rights. That was the extent of it."

He paused, observing Hoshino’s reaction. Seeing her slight confusion, he chuckled.

"My, my. There seems to have been a misunderstanding. Did you think it was a lifetime contract with Kaiser PMC?
But I’d never waste a high-grade mystery like you—one of Kivotos’s finest—in such a crude manner."

Hoshino was speechless. Whether from shock or some other reason, she couldn’t respond.

"Hoshino will be studied, analyzed, and understood—in other words, used for experimentation.
That is the fascinating observation we wish to make.
So don’t take it too hard."

"...I see."

Hoshino’s heart was in turmoil.
Guilt—for being tricked by adults and nearly putting all of Abydos in danger.

Gratitude—toward the Defense Director who had brilliantly saved them.
Despair—knowing she’d never see her precious friends again.
Yet also hope—that those same friends could live happily, free from the last remnants of debt.

Countless emotions clashed and tangled inside her.
But... in the end, she reached only one conclusion.

"Everyone..."

Her situation hadn’t changed.
The transfer of all her rights remained irreversible.
There was no going back.

"You should forget about a stupid senpai like me... and live happily..."

Chapter Text

Student Council Ordinance, Article 34, Section 6
"The school shall strive to prevent disasters and protect students from danger."

Amid the delayed reunion with the FTF due to the sound of an explosion,
I learned that the FTF members had been "encouraged" by the people of PS68.

I’d assumed they were just troublemakers, but it seems they’re the type to act decisively when it counts.
Maybe their past actions can be overlooked…?

["Let’s head back for now."]

Not long after we regrouped, Sensei made that suggestion.

<...Yes, Sensei. The battle ahead will be far greater and harder than anything we’ve faced.>

As Ayane said,
what we’re up against is the full might of Kaiser PMC.
There’s no telling what illegal weapons they might unleash on everyone.

<We need to return and plan how to save Hoshino-senpai.>

But these people won’t give up.
They’ve fought this far, nearly broken once, yet stood tall again with others’ help.
The resolve of the FTF won’t shatter so easily now.

"Ayane-san."

<...Yes, Director of Defense.>

"RABBIT Platoon and I will assist at full strength.
Let’s save Hoshino-san together."

<...Understood!>

Nighttime. The hour when children should be asleep.
Sensei enters a certain building in Kivotos.
There, they’re greeted by a figure in a black suit.

"...We’ve been expecting you, Sensei."

Seated at a table, he offers a polite greeting, his tone as measured as ever.

"We wanted to speak with you face-to-face.
...We know who you are. The enigma summoned by the Student Council President.
Owner of the Ooparts—Shittim Chest, and advisor to the federal investigation club 'Schale.'"

Black Suit studies Sensei, as if seeking confirmation.
Reluctantly, Sensei nods.

"Others may underestimate you, but we do not.
...Let’s be clear. We have no desire to oppose you. In fact, we’d rather collaborate."

Sensei frowns, but Black Suit continues.

"We’ve determined you’re the greatest obstacle to our plans.
Wiping out a minor school like Abydos means nothing to us.
But clashing with you? That, we’d prefer to avoid."

["Who are you?"]

"...Ah. How rude of me. I neglected introductions."

Black Suit bows slightly, as if apologizing for the oversight.

"Like you, we are outsiders in Kivotos—though from a different... sphere.
For now, we borrow a suitable name. You may call us ‘Gematria.’”

He then requests to be addressed simply as "Black Suit" before posing a question:

"Allow me to ask: Is there no chance you’d consider cooperating with us?"

["Absolutely none."]

The refusal is so blunt it leaves Black Suit momentarily speechless.

"...Then what do you seek in Kivotos?
We offer truths and esoteric knowledge—yet you decline?"

["Not interested."]
["I’m only here to take Hoshino back."]

"...Heh. Heheh."

When Sensei stares, puzzled by his laughter, Black Suit explains:

"Sensei, do you truly believe your actions are just? By what right do you make such demands?
Hoshino is no longer an Abydos student. Have you not seen her withdrawal form?"

Sensei scoffs, as if the statement is absurd.

["Hoshino never withdrew."]
["I never signed the paperwork as her club advisor."]
["She’s still a member of the FTF,"]
["still Abydos’s vice president,"]
["and still my student."]

"I see... So long as you remain her Sensei, her status requires your approval...
How intriguing. This complicates matters.
Academies, students, instructors... Hmm. A troublesome framework indeed."

What follows is predictable.
Black Suit argues that if their contract voids, Abydos’s debt to Kaiser remains, and the school will suffer. "Acknowledge the students’s resolve to save it," he insists.
But Sensei counters by playing the "adult’s card"—vowing to fight, whatever the cost.

"......"

In the end, Black Suit reveals Hoshino is held by Kaiser PMC, subjected to fear-conditioning experiments, and warns that Gematria will be watching Sensei closely.

Yet the story’s conclusion holds a slight deviation.

"The Director of Defense... We hadn’t paid her much mind, but..."

One student had finally drawn their attention.

Chapter Text

Student Council Regulations, Article 8, Clause 1

"The establishment of clubs in each school shall be free, and their number shall not be arbitrarily restricted."

Student Council Regulations, Article 8, Clause 3

"Clubs shall receive the school's protection within reasonable bounds, and the school may, within reason, provide financial support necessary for their operation."

Kaiser PMC’s forces began to withdraw.

After leaving behind a clichéd villain line—"Just you wait!"—the only things remaining in their absence were the FTF and the helicopter I was riding in.

"...Everyone."

Are the FTF members going to be okay? Hoshino-san had already fallen into their hands.

Even if we wanted to rescue her, the FTF couldn’t possibly take on Kaiser PMC’s entire force alone.

If the RABBIT squad helped, the situation might improve, but…

"...Moe-san. Please land the helicopter nearby first."

For now, let’s regroup with the FTF members.

We can worry about the rest later.

"Huh? But after Kaiser’s attack, there’s nowhere safe to land around here."

"Oh no."

What should we do? Should we circle around and land farther away, then come back on foot?

That would probably be the safer option, but…

"Um, if the Defense Director is okay with it… I could carry you down on a rope?"

"...I’ll leave it to you."

For now, let’s rely on Miyako-san’s kindness and focus on getting down quickly.

...Ugh. This is a little embarrassing.

Meanwhile, as the Defense Director's shout forced Kaiser PMC to retreat…

There were students who had missed their perfect timing to make an entrance.

"Oooh…!!"

"Wow. Guess we didn’t even need to step in?"

"The Defense Director… I’d only heard rumors, but I didn’t expect this."

"My bombs ended up being useless…
See? I really am worthless, aren’t I? Should I just die? Yeah, I should die!"

"No, Haruka. This isn’t your fault, so stop it."

While the others were busy with their own reactions, Aru—who dreamed of being a hard-boiled, charismatic villain—watched the Defense Director with shining eyes.

That sharp, squinting gaze.
The precarious balance on the helicopter, barely avoiding a fall.
A mind sharp enough to deliver all those difficult yet cool lines.
And the sheer audacity to drive back an entire PMC force with nothing but words.

Yes. Rikuhachima Aru had come to admire Shiranui Kaya!

Aru immediately turned her attention to the FTF.

Despite putting on such an incredible performance and becoming the center of such an epic scene, they looked utterly defeated.

"...Tch. Pathetic."

With that muttered remark, Aru listened to their conversation.

"...Well, we got the school back, I guess."

"But that guy said the Student Council abandoned us. What was that about?"

<I... I don’t really know either...>

"Ugh… With Hoshino-senpai gone, what are we supposed to do now?"

"Everyone..."

The FTF was still in shock.

Even though the Defense Director's words had forced Kaiser to retreat, nothing had really changed.

Most of the light was gone, but an overwhelming amount of debt remained.
The land they’d traded away wouldn’t return, and Hoshino had been taken by Kaiser.
What had they even accomplished…?

Seeing them like this, Aru felt something boiling inside her.

She couldn’t just let this slide without saying something.

"Haruka. Set off the bomb. Let’s snap these idiots out of it."

"Huh? A-Ah, got it!"

Before Kayoko or Mutsuki could react, Haruka triggered the explosives.

The deafening blast made every member of the FTF jolt upright.

<?!>

"What the hell was that?!"

Completely caught off guard, everyone panicked—even Miyako, who had been about to descend on the rope.

But Aru, unfazed by the noise, strode toward the FTF without a change in expression.

To think the outlaws she admired could look so pitiful…

She’d rather die than let this stand.

Chapter Text

Student Council Ordinance, Article 26, Clause 1

"All students have the right to petition the Student Council in writing, within the bounds of common sense."

After negotiations with Black Suit broke down, Sensei’s next destination was, of course, Abydos High School.

Upon arriving and opening the familiar classroom door, the members of the FTF—still awake—greeted Sensei.

"Sensei, welcome back."

Shiroko was the first to greet him, followed by the others.

"Yeah! We’ve been waiting for you, Sensei!"
"Sensei!"
"Sensei..."

Their expressions were resolute, yet not overly tense. In this atmosphere, Shiroko spoke up.

"We’re waiting for your decision. Our next move is—"

[ "Let’s save Hoshino!!!!" ]

That’s right. The choice to save their precious upperclassman.

From the very beginning, there was never any other option for them.

"Yeah. We’ll follow your lead, Sensei."

[ "We’ll save Hoshino and bring her back here!" ]
"Got it!"

[ "We’ll save Hoshino… and then scold her hard!" ]
"Yeah, yeah! She broke her own promise, so she deserves it! We’ll scold her mercilessly!"

[ "We’ll save Hoshino… and make her say, 'Welcome back!' and 'I’m home!!'" ]

By now, no one was questioning how they would save Hoshino.

They had to save her. And once they did, they’d welcome her back with everything they had.

That was the only thing on their minds.

"Huh?! W-Wha—?! That’s so lame!! Who’d even say something so embarrassing?!"

"I will."

"Wha—?!"

"I’ll do it too! Serika-chan, you don’t have to."

At Sensei’s words, Serika flushed with embarrassment, while Shiroko and Nonomi firmly declared they’d join in.

"W-Whaaat?!"

"I-I was hesitating… but now that I think about it, it does feel like the right thing to do..."

"D-Do whatever you want! I’m never doing something that cringy!!"

Just as Ayane—slightly embarrassed but still considering it—noticed the classroom door slightly ajar…

Familiar voices drifted in from the other side.

Miyako, standing just outside the open door, stared at me intently.

"...Aren’t you going in?"

"Well… If I barge in now, I’d just be intruding, right? And it’s not like they’d welcome me anyway..."

Honestly, that’s true, isn’t it?

Who’d actually like someone like me? I look like some shady mastermind, and my only redeeming quality is being competent at my job...

"...Are you serious?"

"Wow. This is some next-level denseness."

"Sigh… The upperclassmen were right after all..."

"Huh? Why’s everyone looking at me like that?"

Their stares hurt!

What did I even do wrong?!

"Defense Director..."

"Not you too, Miyu?!"

No way! If even Miyu starts attacking me with her eyes…!

Just as I was lost in slightly absurd thoughts—

The door to the FTF room, which I’d left slightly open, swung wide.

"What are you all doing? Come inside already!"

The one who opened it was Ayane.

Huh? Since when did she notice us?

"Just now… B-But anyway! Will you all help us too?"

There was a faint trace of anxiety in Ayane’s eyes.

Well, there’s only one answer to that, right?

"Of course, Ayane. We owe the FTF a lot."

"And we can’t let those Kaiser bastards get away with invading our city right under SRT’s noses!"

...Miyako and Saki answered before I could.

B-But there’s still time for the final word…!

"Kuhihi~ If it’s for that Director, we’ll give her a proper welcome later. I’m curious how a ‘mature adult’ like her would react to that~."

"I-I’ll do my best to help…!"

"Thank you, RABBIT Squad! And Defense Director too!"

"...Huh? O-Oh! Of course! I’ll give it my all to help rescue Hoshino!"

...My closing line was a bit clumsy, but now, everything’s set.

Tomorrow—we’re taking Hoshino back from Kaiser Corporation!

Chapter Text

After mentioning that he had separate plans for troop reinforcements, Sensei left somewhere and then returned.

Where did he go? Did he make a separate request to the PS68 group...?

But if that were the case, he wouldn’t have needed to leave us behind, so he must have gone to ask someone else for help.

"Hmm. All set."

"Yeah! We’ve got plenty of supplies and tons of snacks packed!"

"Yep, we’re fully prepared! Plenty of sleep, full stomachs—good to go!"

"Right. I’ve also collected and updated all the old maps of the Abydos desert."

It seemed the FTF was completely ready.

I turned to the RABBIT Platoon to check on them.

"How about you all?"

"RABBIT 1, no issues here."

"RABBIT 2, all clear."

<RABBIT 3, just give the word anytime~.>

"U-uh, RABBIT 4... no problems here..."

Good. RABBIT Platoon was fully prepared too.

Now it was time for Ayane, serving as the operator, to give a quick briefing.

"According to the intel from Sensei, Hoshino-senpai is at the heart of Kaiser PMC’s District 51. We’ll operate on the safest route to reach her!"

As soon as Ayane finished speaking, Sensei shouted as if he’d been waiting for this moment.

 ["Let’s move out!"]

"Yes! Then, we begin the operation to rescue Hoshino-senpai!!"

Reinforcements gathered to aid Abydos.

The Prefect Team from Gehenna, swayed by Sensei’s earnest request.

Nagisa from Trinity's Tea Party, motivated by a friend’s plea and political interests.

Though only three Prefect Team members were on-site, the fact that Hina herself had taken action allowed them to push back Kaiser PMC’s forces.

The Tea Party’s artillery unit, under Faust’s command, was conducting field training—until their shells accidentally landed near Kaiser’s troops.

With their support, the FTF and RABBIT Platoon advanced swiftly.

Finally, they reached their target coordinates.

<Hoshino-senpai is trapped somewhere around here! Search carefully. She must be...>

At Ayane’s words, everyone scanned the area.

What they saw was an enormous school building, half-buried in sand...?

"This place is..."

"A—a school? These ruins... This is definitely a school, right?"

"Was there really a building this huge in the middle of the desert...?"

"A school in the middle of the desert... Then this is..."

"Ahh, yes. This is the former main building of Abydos High School."

As everyone stood stunned by the scale of the ruins, a familiar but grating voice—the Kaiser PMC executive—echoed in their ears.

Along with it came a flood of Kaiser PMC troops.

"Well, well. You actually made it here. Abydos Foreclosure Task Force. And the hounds of the General Student Council."

<We’re not dogs, we’re rabbits~>

Ignoring Moe’s quip, the Kaiser executive continued.

"...The ruins of Abydos, abandoned as the desertification spread. This was once the heart of Abydos.

You probably don’t even recognize this relic of the past... but beneath the sand lies the remains of what was once the largest and mightiest school in Kivotos.

Gematria demanded we build a laboratory here."

<A laboratory...!!>

"Where is Hoshino-senpai?!"

"That vice president is just beyond us, inside that building. Who knows—the experiment might already be underway."

...A cheap provocation.

An attempt to rattle the FTF into making a mistake.

"...!!"

"So, what’ll it be? Eager to rush in and save your senpai? Then try getting past us first!"

<These numbers... They won’t let us through easily...>

Hmm... So this is how it’s going to be.

In that case, we should split roles. This place is...

BOOOOOOM—!!!

A deafening explosion ripped through the air, scattering my thoughts.

...I had a feeling this would play out like last time.

<Another explosion?! W-what’s happening now?>

Before Ayane could finish speaking, the dust from the blast settled.

...Just as expected, it was the PS68 group.

"Ta-dah! Hellooo~☆"

"E-excuse our intrusion!"

<P-PS68?!>

At that moment, everyone on the scene turned to look at them.

"Appearing at this exact moment... Don’t tell me...?!"

"I see. So that’s it."

<Ooooh. Are they really gonna say it?>

Their eyes sparkled with anticipation—waiting for those words from the group that had just barged in.

"...Huh? What’s with these hopeful stares?"

"Wait. This feels dangerous. Boss, let’s assess the situation first—"

Kayoko tried to stop Aru, but it was too late.

Aru had already smirked.

"Heh. Sharp as ever, I see. FTF. Well, isn’t it obvious why we’re here?"

The entire FTF. The entire RABBIT Platoon.

All of them silently hoped for that one line.

Would she say it?

"Leave this place to us—go save your friend!!"